Autism Unlimited
Dorset & Wiltshire
Rugby charity donation has autistic students jumping for joy.
The rugby players’ charity Wooden Spoon has donated £5k to install an in-ground trampoline at Autism Unlimited’s Portfield Sixth Form in Christchurch.
The charity’s trustee and Dorset, Wiltshire, and Hampshire Regional Chair Brett Bader opened the 12ft, fully enclosed ‘Wooden Spoon Trampoline’. Jack, a Sixth Form student, then joined him for an impromptu jump around.
Brett said: “The students we’ve met have been a real credit to Autism Unlimited. It was a wonderful opportunity to see the inspirational work and the power of a collective group of people to make a real difference, to people having their stepping stones as they progress into the community and onto future aspirations.”
Wooden Spoon funds projects to support vulnerable children and young people across the UK and Ireland and since its formation in 1984 has raised more than £31m.
Portfield School Sixth Form in Airfield Road opened its doors to students aged 16-19 in September 2023.
The students are offered a curriculum that consists of:
- Functional skills in English and Maths, and digital
- Princes Trust Personal Development and Employability skills
- ASDAN
- RSHE
- Preparation for Adulthood
- Duke of Edinburgh award scheme
Assistant Headteacher of the Sixth Form Carol Maccoll said: “We were absolutely delighted when Wooden Spoon announced it would be donating this fantastic piece of equipment to our outdoor area. Physical activity, exercise and healthy living are integral to our teaching here and many students use the trampoline to help them with their sensory regulation. It also helps when students have excess energy, as the physical activity releases endorphins which help students to calm and reduce anxiety. Using the trampoline can also aid balance and co-ordination.”
In addition, she said: “It was wonderful to host Brett and Lucy at Portfield Sixth Form and as well as seeing the trampoline, they enjoyed a tour of the state of the art building from the students and refreshments prepared in our training kitchen. We hope to form a lasting relationship with Wooden Spoon.”
