In 2012 the National Autistic Society was instrumental in setting up the NAS Academies Trust (NASAT), taking on the role of sponsor of the Trust. Our aim in doing so was to ensure autism provision was a key part of the academy and free school programme, and to share best practice, values and ethos.

In the last decade, the role of all academy trust sponsors has changed significantly. Over the last few months, we have been working with NASAT and the Department for Education (DfE) to evaluate the role of sponsor and assess whether, with the new parameters for sponsors and the need for the Trust to have autonomy and act independently, we can continue to meet our original aims.

We are proud of everything we have achieved with the Trust over the last ten years but now believe that, in common with many other academy trusts, NASAT’s next phase must be to explore a new and independent future away from the traditional sponsorship model. We are therefore withdrawing as sponsor of the Trust, and will be focusing on our own four independent schools.

Chair of the National Autistic Society Trustees, Dr Stephen Ladyman, said:

“We are now beginning the process of withdrawal in partnership with NASAT and the DfE. NASAT has a strong, new leadership team in place, and we have every confidence that the Trust will continue to grow and flourish. We wish them every success for the future.”

The National Autistic Society continues to deliver extensively for autistic children through

• Our four specialist schools
• Our development of Cullum Centres that provide specialist facilities and provision in mainstream schools
• Our professional education support provided by our Accreditation, Training and consultancy services
• Our work with the Autism Education Trust
• The provision of specialist support services for parents trying to find appropriate provision
• Our Education Rights Helpline