City school honoured for its work on autism awareness

AN AUTISM specialist school has been recognised as one of the best in the country.

- By TESS RUSHIN

Oaklands School, in Whitehall Road, Evington, has been awarded the prestigious Inclusion Quality Mark National Champion Award.

Oaklands is a primary school for pupils with complex needs, including severe learning difficulties, autism and challenging behaviour. It is one of only eight schools across the country to gain the award.

According to the inclusion quality mark organisation (IQM), the Inclusive School Award "celebrates settings where policies, teaching strategies, and school culture ensure that every pupil, whatever their background, needs, or abilities, can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally".

Both mainstream and special schools can apply for the award. Head teacher Sarah Osborne said the award reflected the school's “reach and influence”.

Two years ago, Oaklands became an IQM flagship school, recognised for its exceptional and leading inclusive practices.