Paul, Inscape House School alumn: “I’ve not let my disability stop me from doing what I want to do with my life”
Paul, one of our former students at Inscape House School returned to school to talk to the current pupils about his journey after graduating.
While he was a student at Inscape, he was the very first young person to work in our campus based venue, InCafé. The coffee shop came about for students to gain valuable work and life experience right at school. Research from the National Autistic Society shows that only 22% of autistic adults are in full-time work. We realised it is our duty as an education provider to make sure they have all the skills they need for the future.
During his 14 years at Inscape House School Paul learned a lot, but his favourite has always been the careers education. After he left us he went to Bury College, a mainstream college, and remembers fondly his time there: from his course with the Prince’s Trust, making new friends and starting his first relationship.
He now works at Toby Carvery as a kitchen porter. Being able to work gave him a great deal of independence. He travels to work by himself, and even though he prefers cycling, he’s confident to use the bus and tram.
Paul’s work experience helped his independence skills at home too. He is a confident cook and loves making Saffron rice, pasta bakes, bolognese, and his favourite: roast dinner. He is currently on the waiting list for independent living.
His mum mentions “He's got a great social life. He meets his friends from college, old friends from Inscape, people from jigsaw, from hobbies. We’re really proud of him.”
Many teachers and staff members were very happy to see Paul and remembered his first day at school. Our current students were very interested in Paul’s talk and asked lots of questions about how to get a job and how to manage independent life. His story really resonated with and inspired our young people.
“Some of what of what Paul said is very inspiring and it reminds me of how well I’m doing in my own life. I never knew such big things could happen to people like me.“ - James, student
Huge congratulations Paul!