The Gilles Street Deafblind Centre was established in 1963 as a response to the impact of the rubella epidemic on some children, specifically dual sensory impairments (vision impairment and Deaf or Hard of Hearing) and additional disabilities.

In 1978 the program relocated into Rounsevell Cottage, Hove in the grounds of Townsend House Incorporated, a not-for-profit organisation for people with sensory impairment. The name of the centre was changed to Kilparrin Teaching and Assessment Unit.

In March 1980, Mr E.D. Lasscock, Assistant Director, Curriculum clarified the dual purpose and role of Kilparrin in relation to children and students with sensory impairment and additional disabilities. 

Kilparrin was established to provide;

• a small long-term enrolment possibility for students with dual sensory impairment and additional disabilities
• an enrolment possibility for students with sensory impairment and additional disabilities
• staff (teachers and school services officers) who could be deployed across the state to support teachers in meeting the educational needs of children and students with sensory impairment and additional disabilities
• early intervention support (birth to 3.5) to families with a baby or young child diagnosed with dual sensory impairment.
  
  

In Term 3 1998, the Principal in negotiation with the District Superintendent, established a local planning group to develop an Education Brief for the future provision of programs for students with sensory and additional disabilities.

The Education Brief was presented to the Department in August 1999 following broad consultation with staff, school council, parents and other key stakeholders.

In 2001 the Department identified the Ascot Park Primary School site as the location for a new purpose-built facility.

In June 2002 the Department formally recognised the educational program provided by Kilparrin for children aged from 3.5 - 5.0 years as a specialised pre-school early learning program for children with sensory impairment. This program was named the Kilparrin Early Learning Centre (KELC).

In October 2004 Kilparrin relocated into purpose-built facilities on the Park Holme campus, co-locating with the Ascot Park Primary School and the South Australian School for Vision Impaired (formerly Townsend School for Vision Impaired.)

At the formal opening in December 2005, Kilparrin was renamed Kilparrin Teaching and Assessment School and Services.