The Access Centre at Raynes Park High School has been recognised for its work with autistic children.

The centre was recently given Autism Accreditation by the National Autistic Society which is awarded to educational organisations where staff have a good working knowledge of methods and approaches which produce positive outcomes for people with autism.

During their assessment, the Autism Accreditation Award Committee found that The Access Centre:

  • Has largely effective and person centred support
  • Received very positive feedback from autistic people and/or their families which spoke to the quality of practice
  • Provides personalised educational and therapeutic support rooted in an understanding of the strengths and challenges of each student
  • Provides a calm and safe space for students to work, relax and gain confidence
  • Has an effective key worker system is in place
  • Supports students in emotional self-regulation and in overcoming barriers to mainstream inclusion
  • Are well prepared for transition between year groups and to and from other settings.

The committee also said that it was very clear that the Access Centre contributes significantly to the quality of life of students with autism both during their time at Raynes Park and as they progress into adulthood.

Key to the success, according to the report, is a firm and clear commitment from the head teacher, senior leadership team, access centre manager and staff Team to promote inclusion and ensure access to the whole curriculum and learning opportunities for autistic students.

Merton Council’s cabinet member for schools and adult education, Eleanor Stringer, said: “This accreditation is a testament to the hard work of the staff at Raynes Park, and I’m proud that they’ve been recognised for their dedication to improving education for students with an autistic spectrum condition.

"I am particularly proud of the finding that both students and parents at the school have a great deal of confidence in the work that the school does with their students.”