Autism charity Prior’s Court celebrates 25 years serving young people in West Berkshire

A West Berkshire autism charity has celebrated 25 years of supporting young autistic people in West Berkshire.

Prior’s Court rounded off its 25th anniversary year celebrations by hosting a special event at its centre in Hermitage on Monday (May 5), which brought together past and present staff and pupils and their families.

The celebrations coincided with the charity’s annual Let Me Shine music festival, its biggest yet.

The event featured musical performances across two stages, themed creative workshops, face painting, a collaborative artwork activity and a special guestbook featuring imagery of the charity’s listed Court House building.

During the event, a Corkscrew Hazel tree was planted in Prior’s Court’s Orchard by its longest-serving staff member Lynsey Preston, director of safeguarding and health & safety, and one of the first ever pupils to attend Prior's Court Jenny, supported by her father Mark.

Speaking about the 25th anniversary, founding patron dame Stephanie Shirley said: "Celebrating 25 years of Prior’s Court fills me with immense pride.

“From humble beginnings, we have grown into a world-renowned location, supporting some 90 pupils with the dedication of more than 500 staff.

“Our commitment to excellence and inclusivity has set a new benchmark for autism education.

“I am deeply grateful for the dedication of our teams, whose tireless efforts have made this Silver Jubilee possible. Here’s to the future and the continued success of our extraordinary journey."

The centre celebrated 25 years since its doors opened to its first young people on Friday, September 13.

And Friday, May 23, will mark the 25th anniversary since the school was officially opened by Princess Anne.