Funding helps transform school's autism provision

A primary school in Middlesbrough has enhanced its specialist autism provision following a £25,383 investment to improve learning, sensory and outdoor spaces.

Beech Grove Primary School’s AS2 Base has benefited from funding from Esh Construction, delivered in partnership with housing association Thirteen Group.

The provision supports eight pupils in Years 3 to 6 with Autism Spectrum Disorder through tailored learning programmes, a dedicated quiet space and opportunities to take part in wider school activities.

Improvements include a new all-weather outdoor canopy, privacy screening, activity trail markings, fitted window blinds, enhanced sensory resources and additional iPads to support personalised learning.

The investment is designed to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, helping pupils with learning, emotional regulation, independence and wellbeing. 

Outdoor learning and play will now be possible throughout the year thanks to the new canopy, while the screening provides a calmer and more private setting.

John Dixon, headteacher at Beech Grove Primary School, said the impact on the children has been “remarkable”.

He added: “They are much more confident and have developed stronger social skills through play, with improvements in sharing, respect, tolerance and kindness, as well as their interactions with adults. 

“It has played an important role in enhancing their progress and learning, and we are already seeing the positive difference it is making.

“We can’t thank Esh Construction and Thirteen Group enough. 

“They have been absolutely fantastic for the school and wider community, and the sizeable donation has made a huge difference to our autistic resource base. 

“The transformed space has allowed us to bring elements of outdoor learning indoors, creating a warm, welcoming and safer environment where children can continue to play, learn and explore.”

The donation forms part of Esh Construction’s social value commitments linked to regeneration and housing activity in Middlesbrough with Thirteen Group.

Both organisations have a longstanding relationship with Beech Grove Primary School and have previously supported initiatives across the wider Grove Hill community.

Aley Wright, social value coordinator at Bowburn-headquartered Esh Construction, added: “At Esh, we are committed to creating positive, lasting change in the communities where we work and supporting opportunities that make a genuine difference to local people.

“When we learned about the ambitions Beech Grove Primary School had for its AS2 Base, it was clear the proposed improvements would have a meaningful impact on both pupils and staff. 

“The new facilities provide environments that support learning, development and wellbeing, ensuring children have access to the resources they need to thrive.”

Julie Hollins, social value lead at Thirteen Group, added: “At Thirteen, we recognise the importance of collaboration to help our communities thrive. 

“We’re proud to have played a part in this project, which is just one example of how our work to connect partners and opportunities makes a positive difference for local people.

“Through strong partnership working to link Esh Construction and Beech Grove, we were able to support a project that has delivered fantastic improvements for pupils in Grove Hill. 

“We’re delighted to see how the funding from Esh Construction has enhanced the specialist support available, helping children thrive in an environment designed around their needs.”

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