Closure Of Kingsdene Special School

Media Release Wednesday 4 November 2009

CLOSURE OF KINGSDENE SPECIAL SCHOOL

ANGLICARE Sydney has announced today that it will be closing the Kingsdene Special School and Residence in Telopea at the end of the 2010 school year.

The school has been unable to secure sufficient funding to continue operating, necessitating the closure and the establishment of a complimentary respite program.

"This is a sad day for ANGLICARE, for the staff of Kingsdene and especially for the students and their families," said ANGLICARE CEO Peter Kell.

"Kingsdene is the only school of its type left in Australia, providing accommodation and schooling for children with severe to profound intellectual disabilities.

"It has received numerous accolades over its 33 year history for its exceptional work in enabling children with disabilities to blossom and flourish in their own unique way."

Kingsdene has received funding from both state and federal governments, through
public donations and through school fees. In addition, Kingsdene for a number of
years received special emergency funding from the federal and state governments.

In 2007 the federal government ceased its special funding which has subsequently
seen Kingsdene run at a financial loss for a number of years.

"This shortfall to date has been made up by redirecting funds in the short term from ANGLICARE's other community care programs, but a permanent funding solution has not been achievable despite persistent efforts over a number of years by ANGLICARE and the families of Kingsdene students," said Mr Kell.

ANGLICARE will employ a full-time social worker to assist the 15 Kingsdene families with their transition following the school's closure at the end of 2010.

Mr Kell said the organisation then plans to use the funding available to establish a respite cottage for children and young adults providing options beyond those currently available through state and private operators.

"This will enable ANGLICARE to retain a commitment to respite care for families with children and young adults with a disability."

ANGLICARE CEO Peter Kell, and ANGLICARE Community Care Director Ian Jackson
are available for interview.

Media Contact:
Jim Wackett
0408 426 381

SOURCE: ANGLICARE Sydney