Walkies for Autism’ is a 2-mile walk at Cwmcarn Forest to celebrate and raise awareness and funds for Risca Comprehensive School ASC Centre.

The walk will start at 10.45am on Sunday 14 April, from the Cwmcarn Forest car park and should take about 45 minutes. After the walk, participants can enjoy a cuppa and a snack at the Raven Café.

The ASC Centre supports young people aged 11 to 16 in a mainstream setting, where they are supported by a key worker to attend mainstream lessons and also spend time in the centre to focus upon key skills.

The ASC Centre also helps students to develop essential social and life skills to prepare pupils for life outside of the school.

Funds raised at previous walks have helped to develop independent skills within our garden, working alongside pupils in our ALN department we aim to create a setting that fosters independence and fundamental organisation skills built around students learning essential routines and skills that they require for their future. These real-life practical skills are vital in ensuring students feel confident and develop self-esteem.

The funding also helped provide the centre with tools and resources in their allotment and sensory garden with the aim to learn how to live independently and work with and alongside others.

Deb Howells, teacher with responsibility for the ASC Centre said “Last year our ci project used the money to further develop the allotment area. This year the school are looking at continuing the development of the plot so we can plant more veggies etc, last year we made chutneys and jams from the produce.

Martin Hulland, the school’s head teacher said: “I am delighted to see this event back on the school calendar for 2024. It is extremely well attended and I have no doubt that will also be the case this year. Many thanks to the organisers, and to everyone who takes part!”

To register for the event email [email protected]

To donate go here https://www.gofundme.com/f/walkies-for-autism-2024