Could you imagine a school designed to transform lives? Pathlight School Autism Resource Centre stands before us. It is a beacon of hope for students with autism spectrum disorder.
Pathlight School was founded in 2004. The Autism Resource Centre runs it. Pathlight School started with just 41 students. Today, it has over 2,030. It is one of Singapore’s fastest-growing special schools.
Pathlight School offers the national curriculum. It also teaches life readiness skills. This school caters to students aged 7 to 18. These students are on the autism spectrum. Pathlight School provides support like smaller classes. It also gives special accommodations. The teaching staff is trained in autism.
The school’s mission is clear. It aims to provide a transformational learning journey. Pathlight School wants to maximize each student’s potential. This includes academics and life skills. The school values character. It also values competence, compassion, contribution, and conviction. Pathlight School’s motto reflects its purpose. It declares: Where lives are transformed.
Pathlight School has two campuses in Ang Mo Kio. There is a planned move to Tampines in 2025. Another move to Punggol is projected for 2032.
Pathlight School’s curriculum is holistic. It is based on Singapore’s National Curriculum. Students prepare for PSLE. They also prepare for GCE O-Level and N-Level qualifications. Besides academics, the school offers non-academic subjects. These include daily living skills and leisure skills. IT and PE are also taught. This prepares students with critical life skills.
Pathlight School develops culturally sensitive and socially responsible citizens. They learn through self-reflection. They also learn through repeated practice.
IT is a core part of Pathlight School. The school prepares students for the digital age. It develops their digital skills. Primary School students benefit from the Music & Movement Programme. This develops their cognitive, socio-emotional, and physical abilities. A Music Talent Development Programme is in the works. It will enable students to pursue music careers.
Pathlight School uses a Satellite School Partnership model. This integrates secondary students into mainstream schools. It prepares them for higher learning. It also raises autism awareness.
The school uncovers and cultivates talents. Its Signature Programmes maximize student potential. The Artist Development Programme mentors artistic students. They showcase their art. They also earn royalties from merchandise. The Dance Talent Development Programme trains talented dancers. They perform and get certified.
Pathlight School offers many academic subjects. These include English and Mathematics. Science and IT are also taught. Non-academic subjects are also available. Daily Living Skills, Work Habits, and Social Skills are some examples.
Students can participate in various activities. Primary school students can join Choir or Dance Ethnic. They can also choose Track & Field or Infocomm. Secondary school students can explore Animation or Chess. Robotics, Videography, and Visual Arts are also options.
Pathlight School has seen many success stories. Ketan Deepak Chugani led the Student Council. He volunteered to bring joy to senior citizens. Oh Yik Ran Aaron overcame challenges. He became a confident and mature leader. Bennett Peng Hui went from being non-verbal. He became an outspoken advocate for social causes.
Pathlight School is more than just a school. It is a community. It is a place where lives are transformed. It equips students with the skills. It also gives them the confidence to thrive.