When we first met JT
“When I had my interview, Mrs Haylett said ‘we would like you to come to Potterspury. We think you would fit in and do well here.’ No other school had ever said that to me. The others seemed to find reasons why I wouldn’t fit in.”
JT arrived with a history of failed education caused by behavioural problems associated with his diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Despite disliking attention he exhibited loud noises and caused deliberate disruption. JT did not settle in well on his first evening as a residential student; setting off the fire alarm in an attempt to stop his parents leaving.
JT’s progress
JT worked hard to achieve the GCSE results needed to take a Level 2 ICT course at a local mainstream college. Building on this success, he continued with his post-16 education for 3 years and completed the Level 3 ICT course. During this time JT showed an improvement in his maturity, gained independence skills, and with the help of staff demonstrated an ability to manage his time effectively ”I hated being sent away at first. But in the end I stayed on longer than any other student and the school supported me throughout college too.”
JT went on to support the school Scout troop as a Young Leader, helping to prepare and run Scout evenings for younger students. JT said his favourite subject at Potterspury Lodge School was music. “It wasn’t taught like any other music lesson I had ever had before. My teacher taught me to play the music that really meant something to me.”
JT’s care
The care JT received concentrated on helping him understand his condition and how it impacted on his behaviours. There was a strong focus on developing his social skills, both in the school environment and the wider community.
The development of trusting relationships with staff helped JT take the steps needed to fulfil his potential. JT had an interest in gadgets and staff encouraged him to channel this interest productively towards his goals.
Today
After gaining his ICT qualifications, JT returned to his hometown and successfully gained employment in a role very much suited to his skills, working in IT at a car dealership.
JT’s role involves setting up new software, building new computers and supporting his colleagues with software and network troubleshooting “I love it, it involves computers and cars - who wouldn’t?”, said JT. JT learned how to drive as part of our post-16 programme and enjoys the benefits of a company car provided by his new employer.
What is the future like for JT?
JT is a confident and happy young man with a good job and a bright future. He visited us in the summer with his girlfriend and parents who thanked us unreservedly for “giving JT a life”.