The transition from primary to secondary school is a period of heightened vulnerability for many students, particularly autistic and neurodivergent learners. Traditional transition supports are often constrained by school boundaries, geography, staffing capacity, and the readiness of individual students. This presentation introduces the I CAN Transition Program, an innovative, cross-school model designed to support students to navigate transition by extending beyond these traditional boundaries. It will also cover the range of resources I CAN has developed for Year 7 and 8 students and teachers to support them in this complex transition.
Jak Silman is I CAN Network’s Customer Service Manager for Regional Victoria and has been managing school mentoring programs for Autistic and neurodivergent students for over 4 years. In this role, Jak manages staff, oversees program delivery across regional and rural areas, and works closely with schools and community partners to maintain strong stakeholder relationships. With a strategic focus on program quality and accessibility, Jak is committed to creating inclusive environments where neurodivergent young people can recognise and develop their strengths. Jak is an Autistic woman who was late diagnosed and is the parent of three neurodivergent children. Drawing on her lived experience and strong connections with Autistic and neurodivergent families, Jak helps develop meaningful mentoring experiences for primary and secondary school students. Over the last 3 years Jak has been instrumental in the development and roll out of I CAN’s transition into high school program.
An engaging three-day event you won't want to miss.