Birmingham school receives national autism inclusion award
Rockwood Academy has been recognised by the National Autistic Society for its work to support autistic pupils and create an inclusive learning environment
A Birmingham secondary school has received a national award recognising its commitment to supporting autistic pupils.
Rockwood Academy, part of CORE Education Trust, has been given the National Autistic Society’s Autism Inclusion Award.
The award recognises work to remove barriers to learning, respond to individual needs and help autistic young people participate fully in school life.
Jamie Henshaw, executive headteacher at Rockwood Academy, said: “We are very proud to have received the National Autistic Society’s Autism Inclusion Award. It recognises the commitment of our staff to understanding autism and making sure our students feel understood, included and supported in school.
“I would particularly like to thank our SEND team for their dedication and hard work. Their commitment to our students, alongside the support of colleagues across the school, has been central to achieving this recognition.”
As part of the award process, the school focused on listening to pupils and their families, improving staff understanding of autism and reviewing the support available.
The school’s special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) team played a central role in developing its approach to autism inclusion.
Rockwood Academy said its wider SEND provision aims to help young people achieve their potential, build confidence and prepare for adulthood.