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School Philosophy
At Ascot Vale Heights School we are deeply passionate about preparing young people to reach their full potential and become active and engaged global learners.
We want to be known for providing evidence-based learning that maximises the independence of each person in an innovative, engaging and inclusive learning environment.
The school values of Respectful Learning, Community and Collaboration have been agreed to by the school community and underpin our programs.
Testimonials
Ascot Vale Heights School – formerly known as Ascot Vale Special School
Our daughter has been at Ascot Vale Heights School for the last 10 years - since she was in Prep. Before making the move to the school we did our homework due to her rare intellectual and physical disability. She is now a very happy child, always up early getting ready and wanting to go to school.
We were impressed from our first walk around the school!!! The way the teachers and front office staff interact with the students and seeing their response is very rewarding. To see their artwork and achievements displayed around the school is inspiring for all.
The specialised programs / electives that the school offers in both junior and senior years will amaze both you and your child. As parents you want your child to be independent and ready for life / work once school is completed and, like you, the school is always wanting the very best for your child. It is never too early to discuss your child's interests so you can help them accomplish their goals.
Our daughter has come a long way, in leaps and bounds. The teachers are always challenging students at their own level catering to their individual needs. The school motto is 'Learning for Life' and, as a parent, you cannot ask for any more.
We really recommend you arrange a visit in person. You will know if it is the right school for your child.
We came across this school 3 years ago. Any reservations we had about finding the ‘right school’ quickly disappeared after taking a tour. What we found was a friendly, caring and supportive staff who are approachable and work hard to make learning fun and tailor learning to a range of abilities and needs. We were drawn to the fantastic range of programs – from the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, to the social play space, swimming, bike riding, music, art, sport and well organised excursions.
Our daughter loves going to school and has thrived with all of the hands-on learning experiences. She has made friends and has become more confident and independent.
This is a fantastic school – we couldn’t have hoped for a better environment for our child.
Hi. I'm Eliza, I'm autistic and I've been at this school for 6 years.
I like AVSS because I learnt to ride a bike, learnt to cook, learnt to compose music and to use a Myki card. Now that I am old enough I am learning to do work experience.
I have made lots of friends and we do lots of fun things together.
Learning for Life Pathway
Primary Learning Centre
The Primary Learning Centre provides students with intensive educational support for students aged 5 – 12 years. Great importance is placed on the development of communication and social skills to promote independence.
Secondary Learning Centre
The Secondary Learning Centre focuses on the acquisition of skills to enable students to develop academic success, autonomy and independent work skills in alignment with Individual Learning Goals.
VCAL
Year 11 and 12 students are enrolled in Foundation Level VCAL studies.
Programs
Stephanie Alexander Kitchen and Garden Program
The aim of the program is “to pleasurably engage and encourage students in growing, harvesting, preparing and sharing delicious and healthy food in the belief that such skills are essential to the development of life-long joyful and healthy eating habits” (Stephanie Alexander).
Learn To Play
The ‘Learn to Play Program’ encourages the value of engaging in pretend play. Primary students attend the program once a week in the “Rainbow Room” where they are able to engage in play scenarios, interact with their classmates and use their imaginative skills.
Visual Arts
The students explore the areas of painting, drawing, modelling, printing, construction, collage and textiles. The visual art program is designed to support the primary classroom integrated study units, VCAL study units and whole school initiatives.
Physical Education and Health
Health and Physical Education is organised into two strands: Personal, Social and Community Health and Movement and Physical Activity. The focus is on enhancing students’ health, safety, wellbeing and physical activity participation. Students develop skills in a variety of sports, learn how to be physically active and begin exploring how a healthy eating regime contributes to an active body and mind.
Digital Technologies
The knowledge, skills and behaviours in this domain enable students to use technology to access, process, manage and present information; model and control events; construct new understandings; and communicate with others. Students use digital technologies to process data to create solutions and products that demonstrate understanding, and to share their work with others in ethical, legal and respectful ways.
VCAL
Year 11 and 12 students are enrolled in Foundation Level VCAL studies. This program encompasses Literacy, Numeracy, Personal Development and Work Education Skills. The satisfactory completion of the VCAL outcomes creates further opportunities for students to work towards the acquisition of VCAL certificates.
Consumer Education
Consumer Education provides students with the essential skills to be able to make informed decisions when it comes to purchasing products and or services. Students have the opportunity to learn about retail stores and service providers. Food Technology covers all aspects of cooking. It engages students in preparing and sharing delicious and healthy food to foster the belief that such skills are essential to the development of life-long joyful and healthy eating habits.
Science
The Science curriculum provides a practical way of answering interesting and important questions about the biological, physical and technological world. Science is a dynamic and motivating way of expanding students’ curiosity and willingness to explore, pose questions and speculate on the changing world in which they live.
Camp
Each year our students have the opportunity to participate in our Outdoor Adventure Camping Program. Our well-planned camps, at DEET accredited sites, provide great opportunities for our students to increase their confidence and independence and to participate in fun and engaging activities linked to the curriculum. Our camps also provide a wonderful opportunity for students to build on their social skills as they interact with their peers, developing positive relationships and friendships.
Learning has never been so much fun!
Compass
Find Us
The school is located at 1 Tasma Street, Ascot Vale close to the Number 59 Tram and other public transport. We also run a chartered bus and and we are close to the Citylink exits.