Local MP calls on schools to take part in autism challenge

Hemel Hempstead MP, Mike Penning, is supporting a nationwide charity challenge to help raise awareness of issues affecting pupils with autism and is calling on all local schools to take part.

The Anderson Schools Challenge is a joint campaign between The National Autistic Society (NAS) and the Anderson Foundation, which asks schools to complete 50 fun and easy tasks in celebration of the NAS’ 50th Birthday. The tasks, which range from learning to swim to designing a family coat of arms or a family walk, can be undertaken by 50 individual pupils or a whole class, unless any pupils fancy taking on all 50.

Mike Penning said: “I’m delighted to be supporting the Anderson Schools Challenge and am calling on all local primary schools to do their bit and help raise awareness of autism. School can be a real struggle for many children with the condition, but better understanding among teachers, school staff and other pupils can make a real difference. This is a fun and easy way to improve awareness of autism and raise vital funds for the NAS, so that it can continue to support individuals and families across the UK."

Mark Lever, Chief Executive of the NAS, said: “We’re thrilled that Mike Penning is championing this important challenge and encouraging as many schools as possible take part. Autism is more common than most people think – around 1 in 100 people have the condition and it touches the lives of over 500,000 families in the UK. Raising awareness and providing vital support can make a world of different to people with autism and their families.”

Mark Anderson quotes “The NAS have been making a difference to the lives of children, adults and their families living with autism for 50 years. The Anderson Foundation Schools Challenge is a campaign designed to push forward Autism awareness in schools as well as raising much needed funds for the NAS to continue to provide this essential support.

Gary Lewis quotes “we have a higher than average number of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders but I feel that they benefit from the consistently strong personal relationships within our school. We know that these children, like all children respond positively to high expectations in terms of behaviour and achievement. Our ‘Pledge an Hour’ community action programme is ideally suited to the Anderson Challenge which is being introduced to secondary schools next year.”

To sign up to support the Anderson Schools Challenge visit www.autism.org.uk/schoolschallenge

Photo: Visitors from York House School
(Jon Gray - Head, Harry Garland - Head Boy and Alfie Parker) joined Diane Butler (NAS Campaign Manager) and
Kings Langley School students Chloe Green, Alice Norris,
George Bradley, Jack Hobbs, Ella McLeod, Grace Lippeatt and
Gary Lewis – Head) to launch Mike Penning’s support of the Anderson Schools Challenge within Dacorum.