Oxfordshire school marks first ever end-of-year with special celebration

Earlier this week, students and staff at Action for Children's Parklands Campus, in Oxfordshire, hosted a special celebration to mark their first ever end of school year.

Locals were treated to a music concert organised by the school's music teacher, Jennie Bates. Guests also took part in a scarecrow competition, enjoyed the school's home-grown garden and browsed the students' arts and crafts showcase.
 
The school, which opened last September, is a co-educational special school providing day, residential, fostering and outreach services to young people aged 11 to 19. Students are supported with various behavioural, social and emotional difficulties, and complex needs including autistic spectrum disorders.
 
More than 100 people turned out for the bash, which included a surprise serenade from the Oxford String Quartet - an esteemed group which has played for the likes of Prince William.

Among the guests were community members including Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Tim Stevenson; the Majoress of Abingdon Cllr Monica Lovett; the Major of Faringdon Cllr Dr Mike Wise and his consort Mrs Ingrid.
 
Action for Children's Ray Wilson, Principal of Parklands Campus, said, "We are delighted to be celebrating our first ever end of school year with so many children, young people, families and the local community.

"It is incredibly important for young people with behavioural and learning difficulties to get the support they need to reach their full potential.
 
"This celebration has given us a real opportunity to reflect on our successes over the last year, and to thank all of those who supported our staff and students. We had an amazing time and we can't wait to begin our second year!"
 
Parklands will begin its next term in September.