Program Aims
• It is our aim to provide professional services to students in a relaxed, warm, fun and caring environment.
• Giant Steps programs aim to assist students reach their developmental potential, foster authentic connections with others and guide students towards self management.
Programs
Programs are structured, highly individualised and transdisciplinary
Giant Steps runs programs for students in the following areas
• Early Intervention
• Infant
• Primary
• Secondary
• Post secondary- Adult Group
Students will transition to, and between programs at a rate appropriate to their individual progress.
Multidisciplinary Services
Students enrolled in Giant Steps have access to Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy Services included in their regular classroom Program. Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists work both in classrooms and on an individual basis with students.
Program Elements
Program elements also include, learning through Visual Arts, Music and Dance, Creative Play, Information Technology, Leisure Activities, Community Access, Daily Living Skills and Individualised Academic Programs. There are many embedded skills gained through participation in these programs.
Giant Steps is fortunate to have many community volunteers who run programs such as horse riding for students on a weekly basis. There is a small group of community volunteers who run programs for students to enable participation in the local Tasmanian Craft Fair.
Early Intervention Program
Currently students have the option of two hourly group sessions which run Monday to Thursday from 10.00 to 12.00 in the morning or 1.00 to 3.00 in the afternoon.
Staff Support for Programs
Our devoted and well trained staff work together to provide an environment that is well structured to meet the needs of students who are intensively supported on an individual basis. It is always our philosophy to work as a multi disciplinary team to collaborate on the best way forward for students
Transitions to Mainstream Settings
A key goal for a number of students at Giant Steps is inclusion into mainstream school environments. Inclusive school and community environments encourage social, behavioural, language and academic development for some students.
Giant Steps does provide full time placements for students who wish to attend five days per week.