AUTISTIC children are set for a better educational experience in the county following the launch of a project aimed at understanding the disability more. 

Staff and pupils are to benefit from the Autism in Schools Project which has been relaunched in schools across the Dorset Council area. 

The national project aims to provide mainstream schools with environments in which autistic pupils can thrive and have a sense of belonging. 

While each school will receive Autism Education Trust (AET) training, young autistic people will be able to share what it is like living with the disability.

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They will have greater opportunities to meet and socialise with others who have similar interests which will reduce social isolation. 

Sixteen schools across the county have so far been invited to take part in the project which kicks off in the next academic year in September. 

Roger Haybull, inclusion lead at The Blandford School which is taking part, said: “Everything we’ve heard so far fits with our vision and what we’re currently doing for an inclusive classroom. 

“The guidance from specialists will help us to firm up what this will look like which will not only benefit our young people with autism but other students as well.” 

Councillor Byron Quayle, portfolio holder for children, education, skills and early help, said: “This is part of the government’s National Autism Strategy, but we also firmly believe it is the right thing to do for our young autistic people. 

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“It will help them to feel settled and secure in school and we know that school is the best place for our young people to be, not just for their education but also for their social development and their safety.” 

Jenna, aged 12, was one of the young people who was at the launch event for the project, which is funded by NHS England. 

When asked what would make things better for her in school, she said: “Less noise would be amazing and being able to fiddle with Blutak rather than doing figures of eight on the table.”