Autism accreditation for Elgin secondary
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
ELGIN Academy has retained its autism accreditation for another three years, following an assessment by the National Autistic Society.
The Academy was the first school in Scotland to be awarded the accreditation in 2017. This latest assessment, carried out over three days, included hours of lesson observation and discussion with pupils, parents and teachers.
Assessors highlighted the Support for Learning department, saying it was “staffed by very knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff who have undertaken significant professional training enabling them to provide effective, and well-regarded, support to staff throughout the school”.
They were also praised for their interaction with pupils, with assessors noting “staff interact with each autistic individual in ways that reinforce a sense of self-worth, dignity and self-esteem”.
Depute head teacher Lizzy Toon said retaining autism accreditation benefits the whole school community.
She said: "As a school we recognise that best autism practice is also best teaching practice. We are looking forward to continuing to improve our provision at Elgin Academy over the next three-year cycle.
"Sincere thanks go to all the parents, staff and pupils who were involved in this process. Very special thanks must go to all of our young people, who impress us every day with their abilities, progress and achievements.
"We would also like to recognise the expertise and innovative practice of many of our teachers and in particular our Support for Learning department.
"This award is testament to the fantastic team efforts of our whole school community and one of which we are exceptionally proud."
The school environment was singled out as a strength, with its colour-coded corridors, clear signage and quiet rooms – used during school dances to enable autistic users to attend and participate at a level they feel comfortable with.
Assessors noted the life and social skills development, saying “there is a focus on developing life skills which will enable individuals to reach their potential and live a fulfilled life after school”.
*Click here for more Moray news
