PORTFIELD School, the specialist school in Christchurch run by charity Autism Wessex, enjoyed a day of celebration to say thank you to its team of teaching assistants as part of National Teaching Assistants’ Day.

The autism charity also used the opportunity to announce the creation of new roles that will ensure each student will receive personalised curriculum tailored to their needs.

On Wednesday September 16, 60 TAs that work at Portfield School received gift bags packed with goodies as recognition for the vital role they play in supporting students in the classrooms.

Continuing the celebrations, the school is welcoming nine members of staff into new roles that will ensure a dovetailing of the education and therapy provided to each student.

Six Integrated Support Leaders (ISLs) and three Integrated Support Assistants (ISAs) will work with teaching and therapy staff to bring a person-centred focus to every student’s journey through the school.

Deputy Headteacher of Portfield School Jemma Dudgeon said: “This is an exciting day for everyone at our school.

“It’s a brilliant opportunity to say thank you to our fantastic, hard-working TAs who make an amazing difference to the lives of our students every day and to welcome our ISLs and ISAs.

“Working with our TAs and all School staff, these staff members will play a key role in enhancing the learning and development experience for each and every one of our students.

“They are a part of our continuous drive to improve the service we provide and show our commitment to progressing and retaining our wonderful staff.”