To mark Coston Primary School in Greenford getting additional accreditation by The National Autistic Society for its educational work for children with autism, the school’s community came together to celebrate its achievement.
The special Additionally Resourced Provision (ARP) is a specialist additional provision and marks how much the school has grown to support children with autism. In 2018 the school had 21 children with ASD and in September 2020 it had 35.
Kate Moyse, Headteacher at Coston Primary School said: “The unit was designed, together with the local authority, so that it was an integral part of the school, with easy and free access for everyone. The suite of rooms has enabled the school to shape the provision, and widen the offer beyond the academic curriculum. The kitchen, sensory room, and additional therapy/ intervention spaces allow for the inclusion of aspects of independent living skills, meet the sensory and communication needs of the children, and increase their flexibility of thought and actions.”
Ms Moyse added: “Our ARP team is amazing, from Day 1 they have gone above and beyond to help and support the children, and each other. Their willingness to go ‘the extra mile’ is exceptional, and their passion for making sure the children get the very best is without question. They are constantly looking for ways to cater for individual children who present with new challenges, and to make sure the ARP children have full access to everything on offer at Coston.
“The Coston ethos centres on inclusive education for all children, and the development of the ARP has ensured that children with Autism at Coston are provided with a rich and varied program of opportunities to develop the whole child.”
Attending the event celebrating Coston Primary School’s achievement, Councillor Kamaljit Kaur Nagpal, cabinet member for A Fairer Start said: “This is a significant step forward as part of our commitment to expanding Additionally Resourced Provisions (ARP) across Ealing and providing the much-needed specialist school support for children with autism.”
Councillor Nagpal added: “Well done to headteacher Kate Moyse, all the teachers, staff, and parents for creating an environment where children can excel to reach their full potential. The provision and support provided by teaching staff, enables the children to attain a level of independence, as they transition into high school.”
