A specialist college for young people with autism has appointed a new principal.
Jonathan Bell has taken over at Bankside College, which caters for autistic people aged 16-25 as well as young people with learning difficulties and other complex needs.
The college, in Hanley Swan, opened last year and is planning to expand in the autumn with the opening of Bankside School, for 11 to 16-year-olds.
Mr Bell, who has more than 27 years of experience in education, said: “I’m very excited about my new post.
“I’ve been busy getting to know the students and their families, and working closely with the incredible team here at Bankside, to make every student’s college experience the best it can be.
“The state-of-the-art new school will share our site and cater for 60 pupils.
“The school and college will provide the unique opportunity for continuous specialist education for students from 11-25 years-old, meeting all their sensory, therapeutic, communication and educational needs and providing them with the best start in life.”
With demand increasing for specialist further education provision the college, part of Options Autism, welcomes students from across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, the West Midlands and Warwickshire.
“Our purpose built sensory rooms, small class-sizes and 1-1 assistance, ensure our students’ sensory and therapeutic needs are met,” said Mr Bell.
“All our staff are trained in a Trauma Informed Approach, alongside Options Autism’s ‘Ask, Accept, Develop’ strategy so they are best equipped to support their students.
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“The on-site clinical team, which comprises a speech and language therapist, assistant psychologist and occupational therapist, provide expert care, advice and guidance."
“We recognise the importance of opportunities outside the college and support inclusion in mainstream services and the local community.”
To make an appointment to visit Bankside College, or attend its open evening on Thursday, June 22 between 3.30pm and 6.30pm, email info@banksidecollege.co.uk or call 01684 649722.
Earlier this year, the county council announced plans to create a free school for pupils with autism at the Sunshine Children's Centre in Poolbrook, Malvern.
It will provide 120 places for pupils aged 5-19. It is not yet known who will run the facility, as free schools aren't run by the local authority.
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