Our Sites
Ascent Autism Specialist College operates out of the North West of England over two sites
Ascent Autism Specialist College
Our main campus opened in 2012, known previously as LEAP Specialist College and is located on Wargrave Road, Newton-le-Willows in the grounds of Wargrave House School. This campus is designed to meet the diverse needs of autistic adults offering bespoke facilities and specialist teaching and learning experiential to support our young people with learning and development.
Ascent has developed from the original LEAP college and offers specialist teaching rooms over two floors and adult gym equipment outside. On site there is the Cosy Corner Café run by our students open every Friday and on special occasions when we welcome in our community, families, and friends, Trustees, Governors and Local Authorities.
Our vocational learning hub on Vista Road gives students the opportunity to develop skills first hand by taking part in work experience opportunities in three vocational learning areas;
- Animal Care Centre
- Print Shop
- Market Gardening
Parents and Professionals
Specialist college students host business breakfast for employers
Students from Ascent Autism Specialist College in Newton-le-Willows recently hosted a business breakfast, bringing together students and employers for a valuable networking opportunity. Held at the college’s Cosy Corner Café, the event welcomed current work experience...
An Individual Approach for Alicia
Curriculum Pathway: Vocational Training and Independent Living Skills Entry Date: 2021 Background: Alicia joined Ascent Autism Specialist College in September 2021 with an EHCP, autism and ADHD diagnosis. Prior to joining Ascent College, Alicia was in a mainstream...
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...