Bill to improve lives of autistic children

The Wessex Autistic Society is optimistic of the recently announced Children, Schools and Families Bill to improve the lives of those affected by autism. The Queen recently announced a host of bills that are relevant for children and young people with autism and their families. The most important is the Children, Schools and Families Bill, which aims to create world class standards in schools, listening to parents, giving them more information and acting to protect vulnerable children.  

The Bill promises to provide guarantees for parents and pupils setting out what they can expect from a 21st century schools system. The hope is that these will equip every child, every family and everyone who works with them to meet the challenges ahead, and so help secure this country’s success now and in the future.

The main benefits of the Bill would be:

• Families aware of, and crucially receiving, what they are entitled to expect from the schools and the wider schools system.
• Children and young people better equipped to meet the opportunities, demands and challenges of adult life through an updated school curriculum covering the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
• Recognition for teachers through a new licensing scheme that recognises their professionalism and boosts their public standing.

Bob Lowndes, Chief Executive of The Wessex Autistic Society comments, “As a charity which runs the first purpose built school for autism in the UK, ensuring this Bill goes far enough to improve education and services for children and young people with autism and their families is vital.

“Portfield School, located in Parley near Bournemouth is NAS accredited, a world class accreditation, and is one of only four schools to have gained the official recognition in the south west area.

“We provide personalised education and care for every individual at Portfield and must do all we can to ensure this Bill is not rushed through given it is being announced ahead of a general election.”  

Janis Rogers, Head Teacher of Portfield School adds, “Autism is a complex condition affecting behaviour, communication, social interaction and sensory integration.  There is a clear need to continue to raise levels of understanding of autism by those working on issues relating to education, and a need to ensure this Bill impacts positively on families and children affected by autism .”

The Wessex Autistic Society will be hosting their annual conference on 10 March 2010 entitled ‘Inclusive Education and Autism – Perspectives and Practice’. Taking place at The Carrington House Hotel in Bournemouth, the conference will examine national strategy, individual experiences, good practice and adapting the school environment for children with autism in mainstream settings.

This conference is aimed at school leaders, teachers, teaching assistants, SENCO’s, Educational Psychologists, LA officers, parents and others who have a role to play in securing appropriate education for children with autism. Early discount applies for anyone booking before 10 January 2010. For more information and online booking visit www.twas.org.uk

For further information on the charity’s work, The Wessex Autistic Society can be contacted on 01202 483360. Portfield School can be contacted on 01202 573808.