Derbyshire school welcomes autism award success
Aurora Ryefields School was awarded the NAS Autism Specialist Award
A specialist school in Derby is celebrating after its commitment to delivering high-quality support for its autistic pupils was recognised by the National Autistic Society (NAS).
Aurora Ryefields School, in Parker Street, which supports autistic young people aged five to 19, was awarded the NAS Autism Specialist Award following a detailed assessment process that examined communication, independence, sensory support and emotional wellbeing.
The NAS found that autism-specific approaches were embedded across the school supporting students’ participation, engagement and development.
Ryefields Headteacher Paul Foxton said: “We’re incredibly proud to have achieved the NAS award. This recognition reflects the dedication, expertise and compassion of our entire team, who work tirelessly to ensure every pupil feels understood, supported and empowered to thrive. Most importantly, it celebrates the achievements of our incredible pupils and the strong partnerships we have with their families.”
The accreditation process also gathered feedback from families, with responses reflecting high levels of satisfaction with the support provided by the school. Assessors reported that 86 per cent of respondents rated the support their child receives as “always good”.
In the assessment report, one parent said: “I’m really happy with the support given. In such a short space of time, I can see that my child has grown in confidence and is finally happy going to school.”