The Thulasizwe School for Autism opened in Soweto yesterday, the first of its kind and specifically designed.

JOHANNESBURG - The mother of an autistic child says she feels a deep sense of relief as her son will now receive special care while learning at the newly launched Thulasizwe School for Autism.

The facility, which was launched in Soweto on Monday, is the first of its kind specifically designed to cater for children with variations of the neurological condition.

The Gauteng Department of Education says 11 other special schools dedicated to the needs of children with autism will be launched throughout the year.

Sibongile Nkuna says she first realised that her son, who is now five years old, was different when he battled to communicate with her.

"It's been difficult to have a child with autism. When I went to the crèche the said they can't take him because he was not like other children."

Children with autism find it difficult to interact with and learn with their peers.

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says the new school will not only benefit children who have the condition, but will also provide relief for their parents.

WATCH: _Gauteng opens first school for autism _