Autism Accreditation: Re-Accredited at Advanced Level with Beacon Status

Achieving Advanced Status confirms that WKS provides outstanding, highly tailored support, shaped around the individual needs, strengths and voices of our pupils.

The Autism Accreditation has three stages: Aspiring, Accredited, and Advanced. Following a rigorous assessment process, the Accreditation Awarding Committee carefully reviews evidence and practice before deciding whether an award can be granted and at what level. Being awarded Advanced status confirms that WKS not only meets best practice, but consistently exceeds it in delivering autism-informed, inclusive and transformational provision.

A key part of this accreditation is feedback from autistic young people and, where appropriate, those who represent their interests. The assessment showed that an overwhelming majority of respondents are happy with the support they receive and feel listened to, involved and consulted in decisions that affect them. This confirms that our pupils’ experiences sit at the heart of everything we do.

The Advanced Award also recognises that there are no, or only very limited, gaps or inconsistencies in how fundamental principles of good practice are applied across the school. Survey evidence met and exceeded national expectations, with over 75% of responses rating provision as “always” or “mostly good”, and the strongest proportion falling into the highest category.

The report celebrates how our autism-informed practice helps pupils and families feel safe, understood and confident, enabling them to engage positively with learning and school life. Pupils are supported to grow not only academically, but also in confidence, communication, independence and emotional wellbeing.

The report highlights the powerful progress pupils make when they are truly understood. Many pupils who previously found school overwhelming are now attending more regularly, engaging with learning and building strong relationships with staff and peers. These outcomes reflect our personalised support, calm environments and consistent routines, which allow pupils to overcome barriers, rediscover their strengths and take pride in their achievements.

Families are also recognised as key beneficiaries of this work. Parents and carers report feeling listened to, supported and reassured, with many describing reduced stress and increased confidence in their child’s future. The outcomes section celebrates the strong partnership between home and school and reflects our shared commitment to helping every pupil thrive, belong and succeed. 

Achieving Advanced Award with Beacon Status also recognises our commitment to sharing expertise beyond our own school. Beacon schools support and influence good practice across the wider education community, demonstrating leadership in understanding, inclusion and outcomes for autistic young people. This recognition reflects the exceptional work of our staff, the strength of our partnerships with families, and, most importantly, the positive journeys our pupils make every day. This accreditation is a wonderful recognition of our community’s dedication to creating a school where every pupil is valued and celebrated.