Council praises Wilmslow High School for autism award

Cheshire East Council has praised the staff at Wilmslow High School for achieving a Nasen award for how they include and support children and young people with autism at their specialist resource provision.

Nasen (the national association for special educational needs) is a charity that supports all education practitioners. Their annual awards celebrate the achievements of individual and organisations within the special educational needs and disability (SEND) sector.

This year’s awards featured 13 different categories to celebrate those who make a real difference to children with SEND.  The Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) resource provision at the school were successful in the secondary category which recognises a school that promotes inclusion, has exceptional facilities with learning that goes above and beyond.

Autism is a life-long condition that affects a person’s ability to make sense of the world. It is known as an autism spectrum condition (ASC) because it includes a wide range of differences. 

It is estimated that there are nearly 1600 children and young people with autism across Cheshire East, with many receiving help via an education, health and care plan, which sets out the additional support they need to achieve their potential at school and into adulthood.

Councillor Kathryn Flavell, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families said: “I am delighted to hear the news of Wilmslow High School’s award.  The school is a shining example of specialist provision in a mainstream school for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

“The council and our partners across the borough are committed to providing the best quality education and support for all our children and young people to ensure they live a life that is full of opportunities to learn and develop.

“Having the right school is key to supporting children and young people with autism to achieve their potential and to develop the range of skills and experiences they need to equip them for adulthood.

“We currently have a programme to increase specialist facilities in our borough giving more choice for families and ensuring that children and young people with autism and other disabilities can build friendships with people who live close by, spend less time travelling and have more time to do the things they enjoy.”

Head teacher at Wilmslow High School, Dr James Pulle said: “We are thrilled to receive the prestigious Nasen award for best secondary provision. Nasen is central in driving the SEND agenda forward on a national level, as well as helping to ensure that the young people of today are given every opportunity.

“This is something that is echoed at Wilmslow High School. We strive to ensure that our students receive a ‘whole curriculum’, no matter what their need or background. We are proud to be such a large and inclusive secondary school and are truly blessed to have the students, parents and staff that we do.”

One parent said of the school: “I would like to thank you and the team for all you have done for Michael. From the amazing preparation and contact received before Michael starting year seven, which put him totally at ease for starting high school to present day.  He is so happy to come to school feeling safe, secure and knowing there is always someone to help him. His confidence has grown, and I feel reassured that you will help him in his development over the coming years.”

For support for pupils with autistic spectrum conditions, visit the Cheshire East Council website