2026 marks 10 years since the first Cullum Centres were established by the National Autistic Society in collaboration with the Cullum Family Trust
An event was recently held at Hinchley Wood School in Surrey to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the National Autistic Society’s first Cullum Centres, which support autistic students within mainstream school settings.
The event, which also marked the special milestone for the Cullum Centres at Rodborough School and Salesian School, took place on Tuesday 12 May and saw representatives from the Cullum Family Trust in attendance, along with staff from other Cullum Centres. Local MP Monica Harding was also present.
The National Autistic Society’s Cullum Centres provide specialist support to ensure that young autistic people can stay in mainstream school while maximising their potential and allowing them to thrive. With generous financial support from the Cullum Family Trust, the purpose-built centres help the students, who spend most of their time in mainstream classes, to build confidence and develop the skills they need to prepare for the future.
There are now seven Cullum Centres in total, with each centre supporting up to 20 pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). The centres follow the National Autistic Society’s autism-specific education, and staff undergo regular training from the charity.
During the event, representatives from the Cullum Family Trust were given a tour of the school before being welcomed by the SEND team. Guests were also treated to a choir performance by some of the pupils before hearing from Ben Bartlett, CEO of the Hinchley Wood Learning Partnership, who spoke about the impact that the Cullum Centres have had on autistic pupils.
Caroline Stevens, Chief Executive at the National Autistic Society, said: ”Our Cullum Centres do incredible work with providing tailored support for autistic children, enabling them to thrive in mainstream schools and unlock their full potential.
“We’re delighted to be able to reflect on the many successes and achievements that the Cullum Centres have made possible over the last 10 years, and are celebrating the milestone alongside the Cullum Family Trust who continue to provide amazing support.”
The Cullum Family Trust said: “The Cullum Family Trust is incredibly proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Cullum Centres with the National Autistic Society. Seeing the difference they make for young autistic people has been hugely rewarding, and we’re excited to continue building on that impact in the years ahead.”
For more information about the National Autistic Society’s Cullum Centres, visit: https://www.autism.org.uk/what-we-do/education-and-children-services/cullum-centres
