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Julliet Doherty, head of adult services at Ascent Autism Specialist College in Newton-le-Willows, has been named as one of only four finalists in the Specialist Provision School Leader of the Year Award at the TES Schools Awards.<\/p>\n
The national awards celebrate and recognise the best schools and teachers across the country from UK state and independent schools, across early years settings, primary and secondary.<\/p>\n
Julliet is the only finalist in the category from the North West.<\/p>\n
Compiled by a panel of expert judges, the shortlist showcases the best in education across 21 award categories.<\/p>\n
Julliet spearheaded the development and implementation of multiple initiatives that have significantly improved student experiences and helped establish stronger partnerships with the local community, employers and other organisations.<\/p>\n
Under Julliet\u2019s leadership, the relatively small specialist college has more than doubled its student numbers from 19 to 39.<\/p>\n
In 2023, Julliet introduced an autism awareness training programme targeted at employers to help them gain a deeper understanding of how autistic individuals can add real value to the workforce.<\/p>\n
The expansion of supported internships with training job coaches helped students work towards developing new transferrable skills for the future.<\/p>\n
Unsurprisingly, the college was then awarded the National Autistic Society\u2019s highest accreditation, the Beacon Status, in 2023 after demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-quality, consistent and innovative support and expertise.<\/p>\n