The newly built provision has been designed to fit in with the existing school buildings and has its own secure entrance and drop off point. Inside, the unit caters for up to 16 students at any one time and is a dual purpose unit catering for Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Learning Support Team.

The building is centred around an ambient central social space taking into account colour, lighting, sound and most importantly creating a calming atmosphere, essential to students with autism.

There are two literacy/numeracy rooms fitted with interactive Smartboards, a fully fitted kitchen complete with washing machine, cooker, kettle and ironing board which will improve the independent skills of students and arts, crafts and science room.

The building was recently awarded a B&Q One Planet Living Award and have been given a generous amount of gardening equipment and plants and flowers that the students have planted in their small garden area.

The provision which was opened officially by Jonathan Snowden, a father of three that was diagnosed with autism at the age of 31. Jonathan worked in banking for over 25 years before becoming a carer for one of his children, he now writes and delivers courses on autism strategies for Cumbria County Education.

Jonathan said “Mainstream education with special provision in place, such as the new provision at Caldew school Dalston, is one of the best ways to help an autistic child integrate into society - which is often confusing and frightening to those on the autistic spectrum. I am also concerned that the number of autistic adults living in the UK without diagnosis or help is both a sad and a dangerous issue that must be addressed.”