Cal is now an ex-pupil. He was with us for 10 years. His parents wanted to share their experience as parents of having their son at our school. 

 

Our son Cal started at West Kirby School when he was 8 years old after struggling in a mainstream primary environment. He was a highly anxious child and we were advised as parents to seek a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome as several professionals had picked up on elements of Cal’s social and emotional behaviour.

Before Cal became a pupil at the school we were really worried about how unhappy he was and we just wanted to see him grow in a nurturing and encouraging environment. We had to really fight to get Cal a place at West Kirby. It was a real struggle but eventually we were successful and Cal was given a place.

Over his time at West Kirby School we watched our boy grow from a highly anxious child into a confident, kind and caring young man who had clearly benefited from the support and understanding he received from the teachers and staff at the school. Cal made strong friendships with his classmates and made fantastic progress in his academic studies. The school encouraged his love of History, English Literature, Music and Drama and it was wonderful to attend school plays and other performances and to see him thrive on the stage. We were so lucky to have a great support network and communication with the teachers and support staff.

The wonderful thing about West Kirby School is that they really go the extra mile to help and support their students.

Years after Cal left the school they hosted a fundraising evening to contribute towards Cal going to America. Cal ended up going to Nashville to write songs for his debut album and play his first shows in the USA. It meant so much to us as a family that the school and teachers, staff and students attended the event to support our boy and make his dreams come true.

We are very proud that we were and still are involved with such a fantastic school. It really was a life changing experience for Cal and for us as parents. Asperger’s Syndrome and other Autistic spectrum conditions are still not always understood and if it wasn’t for the kindness and compassion of the team at the school our son wouldn’t have achieved the things he has so far.

Thank you for everything West Kirby School we will always support you as a family - Peter and Paula Ruddy

Read this story from Cal's point of view