Joe’s story

Joe has a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Condition. Joe is an able student, however before coming to the The William Henry Smith School in June 2017 his needs were misunderstood. He was only attending school for a few hours a day and was at risk of absenting. Joe struggled to comprehend the needs of others and his literal understanding of the world caused him to misinterpret situations and become anxious, angry and at times aggressive towards others.  

In the last few years, Joe has made significant progress across the curriculum and particularly outstanding achievement in Maths. Previously, although Joe has always liked the subject, he would pride himself on completing work without any mistakes.  On the occasions that Joe did make a mistake this would cause significant melt downs and refusal to carry on.  Over time, Joe has worked hard to be able to self-regulate and take advice and support on how to work through a problem when faced with it. 
 
During his journey at WHSS, Joe has made some significant achievements and become a fantastic role model for the school and his peers. After a culmination of all his successes and achievements, Joe completed a work experience with YPO in Wakefield. Joe was so successful in his role, the company said they would employ him any day! As Joe completed year 11, he completed all his exams his with flying colours, even achieving a grade 9 in computer science which is a fantastic achievement. Joe has secured his place at Calderdale College and continues to achieve in our Sixth Form provision.

Joe’s thoughts....

Before my time at WHSS, I struggled academically and behaviourally. I found it difficult to regulate my emotions and nearly impossible to interact constructively with my learning environment.

After some time and thanks to the endless support provided by all the staff at WHSS, I gradually overcame these difficulties; I was able to better cope with my emotions using more healthy outlets. This, in turn, made me more motivated to achieve. Since then, I have been given endless opportunities for amazing achievements such as:

• Climbing the three Yorkshire Peaks

• Going on a real sailing trip in the British Isles.

• Achieving passing grades in all my GCSEs and even one grade 9!

• Attaining the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze qualification.