A small but impactful multi-academy trust and special school in Somerset have been granted a four-year extension to manage a vital autism support service across Bath and North East Somerset.
The Partnership Trust, headquartered in Radstock, alongside its neighboring special school, Fosse Way School, will continue to oversee the Specialist Autism Support Service (SASS) starting September 2025. Having delivered this service since the 1990s, the Trust expressed its excitement to keep supporting autistic children and young adults up to age 25, along with their families and local professionals.
Funded by Bath & North East Somerset Council, SASS offers education-centered support and fosters inclusive practices across schools and community settings. It assists families and professionals by providing guidance on diagnosis, sensory needs, and strategies to prevent educational breakdowns. The service also connects users with essential resources and direct help tailored to each young person’s needs.
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A fundamental feature of SASS is the Autism Champions network—a group of professionals who meet triannually to share best practices, receive training, and champion autism inclusion within their organizations.
Emily Massey, Chief Executive Officer of The Partnership Trust, stated: “Retaining the SASS contract is an incredible honor that reflects our dedicated staff’s expertise and passion. We are eager to continue delivering this critical service for years to come.”
Looking forward, the service aims to deepen community understanding and acceptance of autism. This includes embracing the principles of the Autism Education Trust (AET) and aligning closely with local SEND and Alternative Provision advisory services to ensure autistic pupils receive tailored support and reasonable adjustments.
Rebecca Tranter, SASS lead at Fosse Way School, added, “The impact of SASS cannot be overstated. We regularly hear from autistic individuals, their families, and professionals about how the service has transformed lives and fostered a truly inclusive community rich in advice and support.”