Specialist college welcomes the local community for spring fayre extravaganza

Ascent Autism Specialist College, based in Newton-le-Willows, recently celebrated the beginning of a new season with its annual spring fayre.

The spring fayre, which took place on the college grounds, welcomed students, staff, parents/carers and the local community to browse the array of stalls and participate in fun-filled activities.

In the run-up to the fayre, Ascent College students made an array of bespoke items to be sold at the event. During their classes, they created decorative Easter-themed gift bags.

Students were involved in the whole event from start to finish, helping them develop essential life skills, social communication skills, enterprise skills, and employability skills.

On the day, students greeted visitors, worked on the stalls selling items to customers, and served hot and cold food and refreshments in the college’s Cosy Corner Café.

The stalls offered a range of different items, including hand-made treats, Easter goodie bags and bespoke gifts.

Games were available for guests to enjoy, with everything from lucky dips to a tombola. Some of the games available were run by the Duke of Edinburgh, presenting an opportunity to learn some new skills whilst having fun.

Attendees were also treated to the musical talents of Ascent College student Yanick, who delivered an incredible performance throughout the morning.

In attendance was Cllr Terry Maguire, Newton-le-Willow West Earlestown, who kindly gifted all students with Easter eggs, donated on behalf of Business for Youth in Newton-le-Willows.

Other guests included Cllr Jeanie Bell, family, friends, parents, and learners from Wargrave House School.

Julliet Doherty, head of adult services at Ascent College, said: “Our spring fayre is a wonderful event that allows our students to be fully involved in all aspects of planning and delivering an event.

“Ahead of the event, students worked hard to create beautiful bespoke items to be sold, helping them gain new enterprise skills.

“There is a lot of planning that goes into ensuring the event’s success and the sense of pride the students have following the fayre is incredible. Well done to everyone involved!”

Ascent Autism Specialist College is part of the Remarkable Autism Charity, alongside Wargrave House School and Sundial Therapy.