THE Light Up Autism Foundation has announced the launch of its Positive Support Program, a program aimed to help create brighter futures for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the mainstream schooling system.
Founded in 2012 by the late Bianca Appleford OAM, the foundation was born from Bianca’s determination to create change after witnessing firsthand how the education system was not meeting the needs of her autistic child.
Bianca’s passion and advocacy sparked a movement toward inclusion, understanding, and practical support for children on the autism spectrum.
The Light Up Autism Foundation is dedicated to empowering children with autism through inclusive education and tailored, school-based support. Its mission is to empower children, support schools, and transform futures by providing consistent, practical assistance to students and educators across mainstream schools.
Today, Bianca’s daughter, Mikaela Appleford a local primary school teacher and the foundation’s director, is proudly continuing on her mother’s legacy.
With a strong commitment to inclusion and education, Mikaela hopes to see the Positive Support Program, implemented in more schools across both primary and secondary levels.
“My mother’s vision was to make sure every autistic child felt supported and understood at school,” said Mikaela Appleford.
As a teacher I see firsthand how vital this program is, not just for students, but for families and educators too.
The Positive Support Program provides consistent, one-on-one assistance delivered weekly by trained aides within mainstream schools. By working collaboratively with educators, families, and professionals, the program helps students achieve their social, emotional, behavioural, and academic goals while promoting inclusive and empowering school environments where every child can thrive.
To celebrate the program’s official launch, the Light Up Autism Foundation invites parents, carers, educators, and school representatives to attend an “Information Day” to learn more about the program and the positive outcomes already being achieved across schools.
Event Details:
Venue: Rosebud RSL – Function Room
Date and Time: Wednesday, 26 November 2025, 11am
RSVP: Please email: lightupautism@gmail.com with your name and the number of attendees
Speakers will include Mikaela Appleford (Director of the Light Up Autism Foundation and local primary school teacher), Merae Atkin (Lead Psychologist, presenting the evidence-based Positive Support Plans tailored to meet each student’s unique needs), Monique Cain (long-standing parent and advocate, offering a personal insight into how the program has supported her children’s growth and development).
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 11 November 2025
