Visitors from Denmark
The seven representatives from Heimdal and Langagerskolen (two autism schools based in Aarhus in Denmark) spent two days visiting our services and learning about what we do to support individuals and families living with autism. The group met some of our staff and service users at our vocational services, Art Opportunities and Gartinny Nurseries. They also enjoyed visiting New Struan School and attended our annual staff conference.
Our Danish connection came about as a result of our interest in a programme called Atlass. Rather than solely focussing on the person with autism, Atlass encourages an understanding of the interaction and relationships between staff, families and others, and how this can impact on the individual with autism. Heimdal has been using and developing Atlass for over three years and we learned a lot from visiting their organisation last year. We were delighted to return the favour and show them around our services as well as sharing our knowledge and best practice.
Sharing in Knowledge in one of the staff workshops
Charlene Tait, Director of Development said, “It’s been a pleasure to welcome our Danish friends. We believe the innovative services we have developed along with the quality learning programmes in place at New Struan School serve as a great model for any autism organisations. We’re also delighted to share our ideas on best practice and we wish them well as they continue to develop further support for people with autism and their families in Denmark.”
Our Danish guests photographed with Alan Somerville, Chief Executive Officer, Jackie Latto, Director of Autism Services, Charlene Tait, Director of Development and Mike McCreadie, Atlass Autism
*Photos courtesy of Michael Dawson
