Today marks World Autism Awareness Day, a day dedicated to transforming narratives around autism. Approximately 700,000 individuals diagnosed with autism live in the UK and Ireland, each with their unique experience of autism.
We are constantly expanding our social value initiatives within our local communities and understand the importance of creating safe spaces for autistic and neurodiverse people. A prime example of this is the new sensory room we helped build at the Scottish Autism New Struan School, designed to enrich the learning experience of its pupils.
New Struan School is an independent day and residential school for autistic youth. The school provides a safe, friendly, and stimulating environment where children and young people can learn, interact, and have fun. For over 35 years, New Struan School has been at the forefront of specialist education for autistic children and young people.
Our team collaborated closely with the school to ensure the refurbishment of the existing sensory room best catered to the students’ needs. We did this by creating an internal space that has an external feel. We’re delighted to have supported this project, and we hope all students at New Struan School enjoy their new tailored learning space.
The partnership with OCS has been an absolute dream for us. The team fully supported our vision, and nothing was too much to ask. We wanted the sensory room to be part of the everyday sensory regulation for our young people and integrated into the curriculum. The benefit our young people will get from this calm, beautiful sensory space is immeasurable.
Lee-Anne McAulay
New Struan Head Teacher
Additionally, as part of our CHROMA network and through our Wellbeing committee, we encourage our neurodivergent colleagues to openly share their lived experiences, insights, and explore support avenues. All individuals interested in being allies, expanding their understanding, and supporting neurodivergent colleagues are welcome.
