i can schools
Since 2014, I CAN Network has partnered with over 120 primary and secondary school leadership teams to develop inclusive school cultures. I CAN School® mentoring directly empowers Autistic students with optimism, belonging, self-acceptance, pride and confidence.
“before the i can program, I never thought I’d meet anyone like me. It makes me happy”
Jake, I CAN Network Mentee
high school program
Our high school program is structured in a way which is organised and consistent. It is designed for the long-term. The two stages of student progression are as follows.
WHEre
Schools decide, in conversation with I CAN staff, on an appropriate space to run the program within the school (e.g classroom or library), or online.
when
Mentoring sessions run weekly or fortnightly, depending on the school timetable. Participants are chosen by each school’s teacher supervisor.
Who
Sessions are facilitated by two I CAN mentors, at least one of whom is Autistic. I CAN mentors are trained by professionals and all have valid Working With Children’s Checks or Blue Cards. Up to 16 students participate can participate in a session, which must be supervised by a registered teacher.
how long?
Mentoring sessions run for 1 hour. We usually run 10-15 mentoring sessions in a school, weekly or fortnightly. We offer flexible program packages which can be modified to suit each school’s needs.
HIGH SCHOOL MODULES
TEAMWORK
Students get to know each other by working together.
Understanding Autistic Strengths
Students further understand how their Autism has helped develop their own unique strengths.
Communication
This module runs over several weeks and focuses specifically on listening, networking and public speaking.
Stress Management
Students share tips and are given advice on how to manage and regulate stress and emotions.
Planning a Celebration
Students focus on organisation and begin to plan for their end of year event.
Celebration Event
The program ends with a student-led celebration where students put the ‘awe’ into Awetism.
how to access i can schools
What we offer: We offer weekly one hour group mentoring sessions for up to 16 Autistic students in both primary and high schools. Our packages also include educational talks for students and parents as well as professional development workshops for school staff.
I CAN Schools Online: We also offer an online version of our successful face-to-face program. See this leaflet for more details.
Areas served: Greater Melbourne, South West Victoria, Goulburn Murray Victoria, Brisbane Queensland, South East Queensland, North Coast Queensland
How to access: Interested schools can write to us at mentoring@icannetwork.com.au for program details, prices and packages. For families who are keen to bring our program to their young person’s school, we recommend starting with hosting an I CAN presenter on campus for an introductory presentation. We can also provide tailored templates and information for parents/carers to use for approaching school leadership who might not be familiar with our programs.
