CHILDREN with complex needs associated with autism have a new education and residential facility on the Herefordshire border.

Summergil House, set in 18-acres of woodlands in Presteigne has been turned into a high-spec facility fully equipped with classrooms, shared lounge spaces, a large kitchen-dining room and individual bedrooms which can be personalised for each resident.

Orbis, one of the UK’s leading providers of education and care for children and young people with an autism spectrum condition (ASC) recently opened its doors.

The organisation already runs facilities throughout Wales providing a mix of residential care and education, respite breaks, and a ground-breaking work-skills centre designed to enable young people to learn essential life skills and qualifications.

Mike Currier, Chief Executive of Orbis Group, said: "Autism is a permanent, lifelong condition but with the appropriate level of support and intervention at the right time, it’s possible to have a hugely positive impact on people’s lives.

"The opening of Summergil House marks an exciting step for us as we are now able to expand our offering beyond Wales, helping children and families in the bordering counties, the Midlands and further afield.”

Fully registered to provide both education and care by inspectorate Estyn, and Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CSSIW) respectively, Summergil House is now a fully-functioning service.

Nikki Pitt, whose 13-year-old son is the first child to attend Summergil House as a day pupil, said: “I chose Orbis for my son because I’m confident that they will be completely dedicated to our son’s education. He now has the opportunity to flourish and will be pushed to achieve as much as he is academically capable of in a well-supported and understanding environment.

“He will have the opportunity to learn essential life skills and obtain qualifications which is more than we ever thought possible. It is not often that you come across a provision or service that works so well, we are so reassured by their dedicated team that we know we have made the best possible choice for our son.”

To find out more about Orbis Education and Care visit www.orbis-group.co.uk.