Making a good impression
Sunderland’s newest school for children with special needs was officially opened by Rory Bremner.
The comedian came to Sunderland to launch Ashbrooke School, an independent school catering for children with special needs, including autism and ADHD.
Visitors from across the surrounding area, including the Deputy Mayor of Sunderland, Coun Lynda Scanlan, went along to the school to see the fantastic building and facilities it has to offer the young people.
Comedian and impressionist, Rory Bremner, gave an inspiring talk about his own journey with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Rory is also a patron for the ADHD Foundation.
Headteacher Derek Cogle spoke about the lifechanging work and support given by the school and a pupil, Jessica Kennedy, wrote a moving poem about her time at Ashbrooke, which she bravely read out in front of all the guests.
Mr Cogle said: “The opening was a fantastic day for our school and I couldn’t have been more proud of all our staff and pupils for their hard work in making it such a success.
“It was a great opportunity to showcase Ashbrooke and all the wonderful work and experiences that have taken place since we welcomed our first pupil earlier this year.
“Rory was an inspiring speaker and had many words of encouragement for anyone living with ADHD.”
Ashbrooke School’s ethos is one of high aspiration and achievement for every young person and provides high quality education for pupils between the ages of five and 18.
The school supports a diverse group of young people who have a range of complex educational needs, communication difficulties and challenging behaviours.
The former Sunderland High School Junior site in Ashbrooke Road, was taken over by the Witherslack Group to create the new school.