SDN Beranga celebrates a decade of inclusive support

SDN Beranga Autism Specific Preschool recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, bringing together families, SDN staff, board members, politicians, and the local community.

Since opening its doors in 2013, the preschool, located in the Sydney suburb of Rooty Hill, has helped improve outcomes for 650 children with autism and their families.

Beranga is an Aboriginal word in the local Dharug language meaning “we belong”. It began as a demonstration service funded by the NSW Government and was initially a long day care centre.

Subsequent changes in funding due to the introduction of the National Disability Scheme (NDIS) meant SDN Beranga moved from long day care service delivery to a community preschool model.

The service has a special place in the heart of SDN CEO Kay Turner, and she used the occasion to thank the NSW Government for its funding support, as “without it, we would not be here today”.

State Government politicians including the Hon. Edmond Atalla MP, State Member for Mt. Druitt, and the Hon. Greg Warren MP, Member for Campbelltown (representing the NSW Premier Chris Minns), also had the chance to express their support and gratitude for the vital work of SDN Beranga.

Mr Atalla MP expressed his shock at the long waiting list for SDN Beranga and the need to “do something about it”. 

“We need to make sure that no child is disadvantaged, and no child is left behind. We want to see all children reach their potential. I am so fortunate to have this facility in my electorate. I hope there are more facilities just like SDN Beranga developed in the future, and I wish you a happy 10th birthday,” he said. 

The politicians toured the inclusive learning environments, spoke with families, and expressed their support for the preschool.

Greg Warren MP spoke about his own Indigenous background and personal understanding of the challenges of raising a child with a disability, before wishing Beranga a happy 10th Birthday.

“These are the formative years that ultimately decide whether a child reaches their full potential,” Mr Warren said. 

“Congratulations on 10 years…I look forward to being here for your 20th birthday!”

SDN Beranga provides an evidence-based play-focused preschool program for 27 children (aged 3-5 years), as well as providing early intervention services and children’s therapies.

Learn more about the service here.