A three-day inspection has resulted in a school for autistic children receiving much-coveted national accreditation.

A team from the National Autistic Society inspected Watling View School in St Albans during the summer term and staff and pupils returned for the new term to discover they had received autism accreditation.

The team found that pupil learning was well supported and extended via the use of visual supports, objects, symbols, and photos, which helped to ensure students understood what was happening, where and when.

The school has invested in additional time for a dedicated staff member to produce communication resources that are required for young people’s learning and development.

Watling View was described as a school with a happy feel where students appeared to be calm and happy and parents reported that their children were enthusiastic to attend.

Multi-sensory learning across all ages met a range of learning styles and needs. The team commented that staff clearly gave thought to offering a wide range of sensory experiences within lessons in creative ways, making good use of the environment and aware of how it could be adapted to address sensory issues.

The team also commended the school’s work with parents and staff were seen to be consistently supporting behaviour in a positive and proactive way, which on the whole ensured pupils were able to remain calm and focused.

Headteacher Pauline Atkins commented “We are delighted with this national recognition of all the hard work and dedication of the school community over the last few years in providing an excellent learning environment for our autistic pupils.”