A new specialist education centre has recently opened at Wood End Park Academy in Hayes, providing a dedicated learning space for children with autism. This centre is the first of its kind for primary school aged pupils in the area, offering 24 places for children between the ages of four and 11.
The Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Colleen Sullivan, was present at the official opening of the unit, known as the Anil Bhatt Building. This building is named after the school’s late special educational needs co-ordinator and is equipped with three classrooms, a sensory room, and an occupational therapy room to cater to the individual needs of the students.
One of the key benefits of this new centre is that it allows the students to receive specialist teaching and support tailored to their unique requirements. Additionally, the children have the opportunity to integrate into the mainstream school during certain times of the week, promoting inclusivity and social interaction.
The opening of this specialist autism centre is a response to the increasing demand for such facilities in the borough. Cllr Susan O’Brien, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and Education, emphasised the importance of providing support for children with additional needs within a mainstream school environment.
This initiative reflects the ongoing efforts to create an inclusive educational system that caters to the diverse needs of all students. By establishing specialised facilities like the Anil Bhatt Building, schools can better support children with autism and ensure they have access to the resources and assistance they require to thrive academically and socially.
In addition to the new unit, Wood End Park Academy is also working towards implementing more inclusive practices and support systems to accommodate students with a range of additional needs. This holistic approach to education aims to create a welcoming and supportive environment where every child feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
The opening of the specialist autism centre at Wood End Park Academy represents a significant step towards enhancing the educational opportunities available to children with autism in the local community. By providing a dedicated space for learning and support, this centre aims to empower students with autism and enable them to succeed in their academic pursuits.
