College celebrates national ADHD award

A Kent college principal said it was a "tremendous achievement" to be recognised for its work with young people with neurodevelopmental conditions.

The Leigh UTC in Dartford, which specialises in engineering and computing, was recognised by national charity the ADHD Foundation.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a disorder where inattention and/or hyperactivity–impulsivity interferes with day-to-day life or development, according to the charity ADHD UK.

Principal Kevin Watson said receiving ADHD Friendly School status was a "tremendous achievement".

"It's confirmation that the work we are doing is making a noticeable impact on the young people we are working with, despite any barriers," he added.

"We are incredibly grateful to the ADHD Foundation for their invaluable support and guidance in allowing us to achieve this award."

Colin Foley, training director of the ADHD Foundation, said: "I am so pleased that The Leigh UTC is getting the recognition it deserves in this area.

"In a busy high school, time, space and support is being given daily to those who might find school more challenging than others. Well done to everyone involved."

A spokesperson for the foundation said the college had "gone above and beyond" to ensure the learning environment was inclusive to all young people, whatever their needs.

This included adapting lessons to include movement breaks and dividing lessons into "learning episodes to support those young people who might struggle to pay attention for long periods."

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