St. John’s College, a specialist college based in Brighton, has joined national charity Ambitious about Autism.
St. John’s College provides education, care and therapy for autistic young people aged 16-25, many of whom also have learning disabilities. Young people can attend the college on a residential or day basis.
Ambitious about Autism is the national charity standing with autistic children and young people. It runs three specialist schools and a specialist college in London, supporting autistic children and young people aged 3-25.
The merger was announced in April and took place just before the start of the new term in September. St. John’s College staff and services have become part of Ambitious about Autism and will be managed through the charity’s governance and executive leadership structure.
‘Shared values’
Jolanta Lasota, Chief Executive of Ambitious about Autism, said: “Ambitious about Autism and St. John’s College share values and a commitment to supporting autistic children and young people to achieve positive outcomes.
“Together we will provide high-quality education for more autistic children and young people and also share best practices and resources.
“Our combined experience will enable us to further develop a robust, evidence-based model of education for autistic children, young people and young adults that leads to better life-long outcomes and influences policy and practice nationally.”
‘Exciting new chapter’
Karen Grist, Principal of St. John’s College, added: “This is a really exciting new chapter for St. John’s College as we join Ambitious about Autism.
“With support from the national charity, we will continue to provide a stimulating learning environment for young people that promotes the development of their personal interests and abilities and prepares them for greater independence and autonomy over their future lives.”
Combined expertise
St. John’s College was established in 1886 as a seaside convalescent home. In 1956, it transformed into a school for disabled children.
The charity Ambitious about Autism also runs national youth and employment programmes, offers training and consultancy, and campaigns nationally to ensure autistic children and young people can be themselves and realise their ambitions.
For more information, visit Ambitious about Autism here.
