Mum raises funds for teachers to take Autism Awareness course

A local mum has raised £535 through a crowdfunding campaign to allow staff at Mrs Ethelston's Primary School in Uplyme to take an Autism Awareness course.

Zishan Adamson-Drage, who lives in Raymonds Hill, said that autism awareness was a subject close to her heart, as her son Jacob, who attends Mrs Ethelston's, is autistic.

Mrs Adamson-Drage said that behavioural signs of autism can sometimes go unrecognised and be put down to "being naughty".

She said it took a long time to get an official diagnosis for her son Jacob, which has allowed them to receive more support, and she hoped the funding would help others in the same way.

She commented: "Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects over one in every 100 people.  Whilst common, it often goes undiagnosed.  For children of primary school age, this can mean difficulty in learning, inability to focus and behavioural challenges.

"As mum to a son on the spectrum, it is so important these kids do not fall through the gap. But as we know, schools lack the resources and funding - this money will help fund teacher training in ASD awareness and give staff a practical toolkit to aid teaching methods, so that ASD kids can reach their full potential. We're so thankful to those who donated!"

Mrs Adamson-Drage is deputy town clerk of Axminster Town Council and her husband Matt is a member of the council, as well as working as operations manager at Lyme Regis Town Council.

Along with Jacob, they presented a giant cheque to headteacher of Mrs Ethelston's, Miss Lyons, last week.

Miss Lyons commented: "Thank you to Mrs Adamson-Drage for their kind donation of £535 to Mrs Ethelston's to add to our ASD resources and support our staff training.

"We are always grateful for any fundraising that takes place on behalf of our school to enhance the children's experiences with us. Anything that can add to the effective education we provide to all of our pupils is always gratefully received.

"We are looking forward to putting it to great use in the new academic year."