Parents & Professionals
The college provides education for young people with autistic spectrum disorder and is approved by the Department for Education.
Criteria
At Ascent Specialist College during the first term of admission each learner’s progress is evaluated as part of a baseline assessment and then again at the annual review in the spring term and annually thereon. Learners usually follow a three year programme. A minimum Entry level requirement of E1 qualification and a primary diagnosis of autism are essential admission criteria.
Diagnosis
The primary requirement for admission must be a diagnosis of autistic spectrum disorder together with associated severe to moderate learning difficulties. The various advices to the Statement of Special Educational Need should provide this information. The primary requirement for admission must be a diagnosis of autistic spectrum. The various advices to the Education, Health & Care Plan should provide this information.
Compatible Grouping
Consideration will be given to the best interests of learners already in college when applicants are being considered for admission.
Consideration will be given to the level of ability and the pervasiveness of autism in an attempt to achieve a manageable balance.
Our Admissions policy is currently being updated, once completed it can be viewed by clicking here.or by visiting the website’s policy section.
How to Apply
Parents and young people are encouraged to visit our college for a tour of our facilities which will in turn introduce them to our educational offer. If you are interested in our college, we would ask you to complete our ‘Parental Expression of Interest’ application – this will be provided to you following your visit.
We would then advise that you contact your Local Authority to express your preference. In doing so, this will prompt the authority to share the EHCP (Education, Health, and Care Plan) and allow us to complete a HNF (High Needs Funding) application.
Funding
For further information please speak to Natalie Molyneux, Student Admissions & Safeguarding Officer.
Parents and Professionals
Ascent College shortlisted for Liverpool City Region Culture and Creativity Award
Ascent Autism Specialist College, Newton-le-Willows, has been shortlisted for another award, this time at the Liverpool City Region (LCR) Culture and Creativity Awards. The LCR Culture and Creativity Awards recognise and celebrate the incredible contribution that...
Ascent College welcomes local community for Christmas extravaganza
On Friday, 13 December, Ascent Autism Specialist College, Newton-le-Willows, hosted its annual Christmas market event. The Ascent Christmas markets have become a highlight in the college’s calendar as they welcome family, friends, and community members. This year, the...
Specialist college earns prestigious recognition with six regional and national award nominations
Ascent Autism Specialist College, Newton-le-Willows, has been shortlisted for an impressive six awards, celebrating excellence at both a regional and national level. In September, it was announced that the college had been shortlisted for three Educate Awards: The...
Specialist college students invited to talk about college plans at Newton-le-Willows Rotary Club
Two students from Ascent Autism Specialist College were invited to Newton-le-Willows Rotary Club for an exclusive lunch where they discussed future plans for the college’s learning hub at Lyme and Wood. After a tasty lunch with Rotary club members, the two students...
Join Us for a Magical Christmas Market at Ascent Autism College!
Looking for festive fun and holiday cheer? Ascent Autism College is thrilled to invite you to our annual Christmas Market on 13th December! Step into a winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, seasonal food and drink, live music, and plenty of unique shopping...
Ascent College open morning Friday 22nd November at 10.00-11.30 am
Ascent College will be hosting an Open Morning for families who are looking for a post 16 or post 19 autism specialist educational provision for 2025. This will take place on Friday 22nd November at 10.00-11.30 am. If you are interested & would like to reserve a...
Join Our Next Ascent Autism Advice Forum – November 5th: Meet Our SENCo and Learn About the Annual Review Process
Following the success of our last Ascent Autism Advice Forum we are holding the next one on Tuesday 5th November, you can attend in person or remotely. The forum will give you the opportunity to meet our SENCo Andrea to find out more about her role and the annual...
Specialist College celebrates student achievements with awards evening extravaganza
Ascent Autism Specialist College, based in Newton-le-Willows, recently held its annual Aspire Evening, bringing together students, staff, parents, and community partners to celebrate student achievements. The end-of-year celebration took place at the Mercure Hotel...
Specialist college launch community autism advice forums to help families
Ascent Autism Specialist College, based in Newton-le-Willows, has announced a new initiative to support parents and carers as their child progresses into adulthood. The Ascent Autism Advice Forums, developed in-house by head of adult services Julliet Doherty, employer...
Specialist college named finalists in the Northern Cultural Education Awards
Ascent Autism Specialist College, Newton-le-Willows, has been shortlisted for a Northern Cultural Education Award. The awards aim to shine a light on best practice, innovation and activism in the field of creative and cultural education across the North of England....