Schools' support for neurodiverse pupils marked

Eight schools in York that provide "safe and nurturing" environments for children with special educational needs and disabilities have been recognised for their work.

The schools were accredited as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) friendly as part of "a commitment to support neurodiverse children", according to City of York Council.

The ADHD Foundation said it had awarded the accreditation to establishments which were "welcoming and exciting places" in which all learners with ADHD could "achieve their academic potential".

Councillor Bob Webb said supporting neurodiverse students was part of a strategy to ensure York was "a great place to live and learn for all young people".

Copmanthorpe Primary, Dunnington Church of England Primary School, Lakeside Primary Academy, Haxby Road Enhanced Resource Provision, Millthorpe School, Tang Hall Primary, Wigginton Primary and York High School have all received the ADHD Friendly School Award.

The schools worked with the foundation to achieve six ADHD pledges, including training school staff, providing opportunities for learners to access physical activity, exercise and self-calming strategies.

Councillor Webb, the executive member for children, young people and education at City of York Council, said: "We want to see inclusion at the heart of education in York and I'm really pleased that schools have committed their time and energy to promote inclusion and the needs of all learners."

Luke Dancer, headteacher at Copmanthorpe Primary School, said: "We are incredibly proud to be recognised as an ADHD-friendly school.

"This accreditation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the staff in creating a school where learners with ADHD feel valued, understood and empowered to reach their full potential."

Colin Foley from the ADHD Foundation said all the awards were "very well deserved".

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