A Newton-le-Willows specialist college for autistic students has earned a prestigious national award in recognition of its approach to developing students’ employability and life skills.
Ascent Autism Specialist College, part of the Remarkable Group, has achieved the Skills Builder Gold Award, which recognises educational settings that embed the Skills Builder Universal Framework across their curriculum.
Through a structured, strengths-based approach, students at Ascent have been developing key transferable skills including communication, teamwork, problem solving, leadership, creativity, resilience and goal setting – skills intended to support them in further education, employment, independent living and everyday life.
Employment Engagement Officer Tara Thomas said: “I am incredibly proud of what our students have achieved. Achieving the Skills Builder Gold Award is a testament to their hard work, determination, and willingness to develop the skills that will support them long after they leave college. This award is not the end of their journey, but an important milestone that opens doors to work placements, apprenticeships, further education, and employment. We look forward to continuing to support our students as they take these next steps with confidence and move towards successful, fulfilling futures.”
Executive Head Julliet Doherty said: “Every student has worked incredibly hard to develop the eight essential skills, and I couldn’t be prouder of what they have achieved. Their dedication, perseverance and commitment to their own personal development have been outstanding, and this Gold Award recognises the progress every student has made. At Ascent Autism Specialist College, we are committed to providing an education that prepares our students not only for academic success but also for independent, fulfilling futures. Achieving the Skills Builder Gold Award reflects the exceptional work of our students and staff in developing the confidence, resilience and employability skills that will support our students throughout their lives.”
Robin Bush, CEO of the Remarkable Group, said: “On behalf of everyone across the Remarkable Group, I would like to congratulate our students and staff on achieving the Skills Builder Gold Award. This is an outstanding accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, determination and hard work shown by everyone involved. This award reflects our commitment to providing opportunities that enable autistic young people to realise their potential. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and look forward to seeing our students continue to flourish as they take the next steps in their journeys.”
Rebecca Batty, Senior Education Associate at Skills Builder, said: “The Skills Builder Gold Award celebrates educational settings that model best practice in high quality skills education. Ascent Autism Specialist College have demonstrated a comprehensive approach to essential skills, ensuring all learners have the opportunity to build and practice skills like Speaking, Problem Solving, and Adapting. Their commitment to ensuring all learners have multiple and varied opportunities to develop their essential skills is an excellent example of Gold standard skills provision – congratulations!”