Sam attends Potens’ Specialist School, Arbour House, in Dorset and has just experienced volunteering to increase his vocational skills – one of many amazing personal achievements that is making 2020 his best year ever!
Julie Perks, Headteacher, explains:
“Sam volunteered at the Co-op in Chickerell and loved it! He managed an hour and a half there today, without issue and they were delighted with his help. He is walking so tall this year, in SO many ways.”
As well as increasing his vocational skills, he also linked to David Taylor, the local MP and Deputy Mayor of Dorchester, whilst he was on a school’s visit to County Hall.
Julie adds: “Sam had written to David about some local area concerns and used the meeting to chat through his ideas. Meeting him, David thought Sam was amazing and has since spoken to him on the phone and we are in the process of arranging a visit to the school.”
These are both brilliant achievements for Sam in terms of his confidence, who at his previous school could only manage 10 minutes on site each day.
Julie explains: “Due to his anxieties and subsequent behaviours he was only in school for a short period of time with mum waiting outside. He had no contact with peers and was taught in isolation.”
Now at Arbour House School his social interaction and learning is thriving.
“He goes to the library with the other boys every week, has lunch with them twice a week and has recently been on our whole day school trip to the Panto, a poetry show and workshop at The Pavillion.
We are all delighted with Sam’s achievements and look forward to his skills and confidence increasing event more during his time at Arbour House.” Julie adds.
