What a busy but brilliant week it’s been! Archie and I had the incredible honour of being invited onto BBC Radio Solent, where we were interviewed by the brilliant Alun Newman. It was such a pleasure to be able to share our thoughts about the “Make a Difference Awards” – an initiative that shines a light on everyday heroes who are making their communities stronger, kinder, and more connected.

Earlier in the year, Archie and I were lucky enough to serve as round one judges for the awards. Reading through the nominations was both humbling and uplifting – every single story showed the power of compassion, resilience, and community spirit. I then met up with fellow judges at the BBC solent studios to whittle them down to the final 4. Not an easy task I can tell you!

This week, it all came together at the glitzy awards ceremony held at Fratton Park Portsmouth Football Ground. The event was nothing short of magical. We were surrounded by people whose actions, big and small, are truly transforming lives. One highlight was meeting Aaron Phipps, Paralympian and inspirational speaker, whose story left us deeply moved. He even recorded a personalised message for my students 🙂 THANKS ARRON 🙂

The atmosphere in the room was electric – full of joy, gratitude, and a sense of shared purpose. It reminded us that no matter how small an act of kindness might seem, it can ripple out in ways we may never imagine.

We left the awards feeling grateful, humbled, and deeply appreciative. To have played a small part in recognising such extraordinary individuals is a privilege we won’t forget.

A huge thank you to the BBC, Alun Newman, Helen Head and everyone involved in the Make a Difference Awards. You’ve given us memories we’ll treasure – and more importantly, you’ve given recognition to people who truly deserve it.

@awesomearchie_

Humbled, grateful,proud. What an honour to be a round one judge for this year’s “make a difference” awards And to chat to the legend. Aaron Phipps @BBC @Aaron Phipps – Paralympian #community #celebrate #radiosolent #awesomearchie #awards

♬ Higher Love – Ben Fox

---

Awesome Archie’s Connection Club Launches at The Priory School 🎉

This week also saw the very first session of Awesome Archie’s Connection Club at The Priory School – and what a fantastic start it was!

The club has been created by Archie and I as a space where children can come together at lunchtime to connect, have fun, and explore their creativity. Whether it’s making new friends, sharing ideas, or just enjoying a safe and welcoming environment, the focus is all about building positive connections. The playground isn’t ideal for everyone and Archie sadly remembers that all too well, so, we have created this initiative to ensure that ALL children have the chance to make positive lunchtime memories.

Our first session went brilliantly. The children jumped straight in, showing such energy, imagination, and kindness towards one another. It was so inspiring to see how quickly they embraced the idea – laughing together, sharing stories, and letting their creativity shine.

We’re already buzzing with ideas for future sessions, and we can’t wait to see how the club continues to grow week by week. The aim is simple but powerful: to give every child the chance to feel included, valued, and part of something special.

A huge well done to The team at the Priory for supporting us with this wonderful initiative. Thankyou for giving us this opportunity 🙂 The smiles on the children’s faces said it all – and we’re so excited to be back again next week for round two!

Meet Wonderdog Winnie 🐾

We’re so excited to introduce you to the newest (and furriest) member of our family/ team – Wonderdog Winnie, our brand-new Shih Tzu puppy!

Winnie has only been with us a short while, but she’s already bringing so much joy. Training is going well so far – she’s picking up the basics quickly, and we’re making steady progress with eating and sleeping routines too. Today was a special milestone: Winnie had her very first walk on the lead! She trotted along like a little superstar, curious about the world around her.

But Winnie isn’t just here to be adorable (though she has that covered!). She has an important role ahead of her. Once she’s mastered all the basic commands, Winnie will begin her journey to become a therapy dog. The plan is for her to be Archie’s emotional support dog, giving comfort and companionship, while also joining us in schools to inspire and connect with children.

We know she’s going to make a huge difference with her gentle nature, waggy tail, and loving personality. Watching her grow, learn, and step into this special role is something we’re really looking forward to.

For now, though, we’re just enjoying the puppy cuddles, the funny zoomies, and the many little adventures that come with having a new four-legged friend. Wonderdog Winnie – the journey begins! 🐶✨

When it comes to planning a holiday that meets ALL of our individual needs as a family its either Disneyland , a Cruise or Center Parcs that feel like a safe bet for us. But, we have NEVER been brave enough to face two whole weeks away. The medical prep, clothes washing and length of time from OUR familiar has always put me off. I can now happily say…. I had nothing to worry about!

The kids Grandma ( Ians mum) generously treated us, Ians sister and her daughter to a wonderful two week Mediterranean cruise for we are ENORMOUSLY grateful . Although you wont see them alot in our public content ( they don’t fancy being TikTok famous just yet;) ) We shared a wonderful two weeks as a family of 9 and it is a memory that we will share forever with utter joy! Getting to spend so much time with our beautiful niece and seeing our children care for her was breathtaking. The games nights, the food and the laughs were truly AWESOME!

As always, we like to share our experiences and the things we learned to help you on your next neurodivergent family journey so… here’s what we learned and why we at Awesome Archie non profit HIGHLY recommend Arvia for your family!

The Arvia is the newest Excel-class ship and takes family fun to the next level — blending sun-soaked adventure with child-focused brilliance. For me that is key , happy kids means a happy me!

Whether you’ve got little explorers, screen-loving tweens, or sensory-seeking neurodivergent children, Arvia makes it easier to say “yes” to a holiday where everyone actually gets to relax.

---

Kids’ Clubs That Actually Understand Kids

P&O’s Reef clubs are broken down by age, and they are free of charge:

These are so more than just babysitting services. The staff are friendly, energetic, and trained to engage children through fun, inclusive activities like arts and crafts, games, themed nights, and movie sessions. For children who need more structure or sensory-friendly environments, the team is usually happy to accommodate if you speak with them in advance. My neice Mollie went into surfers kids club every day and absolutely LOVED it!

Top tip: Let them know if your child is neurodivergent or needs adjustments — many parents report a thoughtful and flexible response!

---

Altitude Adventure Zone – Ropes, Golf & Laser Tag!

Arvia brings action-packed outdoor fun to the seas with:

It’s perfect for burning off energy while sailing through the sunshine.

---

Onboard Cinema & Shows Made for All Ages

Arvia’s Ocean Studios cinema plays a mix of new releases and family-friendly favorites in a quiet, comfortable environment — great for downtime. And the Headliners Theater puts on West-End style shows and performances that are often suitable (and exciting!) for older children and teens. HANDS DOWN our favorite shows were those given by The Animal Guyz. I am going to write a blog dedicated to them and the work that they do as it deserves more than just a para on here! Keep your eyes peeled for that soon.

---

Food Freedom – Archie and Herbie had so much choice!

From The Quays (a casual dining area with a mix of global street food) to pizza and pasta favourites, there’s something for every palate — including picky ones.

You’ll find:

Some venues like The Beach House are super relaxed and family-friendly, so no worries if you’ve got noisy little ones of kids that struggle to whisper like Arch.

---

Cabin Comfort & Safe Spaces

Cabins are thoughtfully laid out with:

When we needed a moment away from the crowds we just headed back to your cabin for a cool-down and a reset. We brought comfort items from home (teddies, fidgets, blankets) to make it feel familiar and we soon settled in.

We had a room with a small covered balcony which meant that even in our wind down time, I could sit and hear the ocean and feel the sun while the boys chilled on their tablet or played chess. AWESOME!

---

Sensory-Friendly Tips for Neurodivergent Families

While Arvia isn’t exclusively set up for neurodivergent children, many families have found it easier than expected to navigate with the right preparation:

Bonus idea: Bring noise-cancelling headphones, familiar snacks, and visuals/schedules to help with transitions.

For us, Arvia isn’t just a ship — it’s a floating holiday village packed with imagination, activity, and opportunities to connect as a family. Whether your child wants to climb, splash, chill, or create, there’s something for every energy level and every personality.

It’s not always easy to find a holiday that meets the needs of every member of the family, but P&O’s Arvia comes impressively close — and for that, we’re THRILLED!

See you again next summer Arvia!!

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

If you’re currently staring at your results and feeling like the ground has just opened up beneath you, take a breath. Results day can feel like the end of the world, but it’s really not — it’s just a plot twist in your awesome story. And the good news? You still have plenty of options!!!

Life isn’t a straight , uncomplicated line from school to success. Life simply isn’t like that! For many people, it’s more like a winding scenic route with unexpected turns, a few wrong turns, and some surprisingly beautiful views along the way. Take it from me, a woman in her mid forties that has taken more than one wrong turn!

Here are some options to consider so that YOU are in control of this time in your life 🙂

---

1. Consider a Retake

If you know you can improve and want another shot, retaking your A-levels is an option.

---

2. Change Subjects or Courses, Worked for me!

Sometimes disappointing grades aren’t about effort — they’re about fit. If you struggled in one subject, you will most likely thrive in another.

---

3. Explore Alternative Education Routes

The traditional “A-levels → Uni” path is just one option. One that Our son has CHOSEN not to take!

---

4. Look at Well-Paid Jobs That Don’t Need High A-Level Grades

Some careers focus on skills, training, or personality rather than academic scores. With the right attitude and work ethic, you can earn well without top grades:

---

5. Remember — Grades Don’t Define You

Some of the most successful people didn’t ace their exams. Your grades don’t measure your intelligence, creativity, kindness, or determination. They only measure how you did on a few specific days under certain conditions.

It’s okay to be disappointed — just don’t get stuck there. Think of this as your re-routing moment. You have options, you have time, and you have value far beyond a letter on a piece of paper.

This isn’t the end of your journey — it’s just a different starting point than you expected. What matters most isn’t where you begin, but where you decide to go next.

@awesomearchie_

exam results day… This is not the end. #exams#awesomearchienonprofit #examseason #mentalhealth #reels__tiktok

♬ original sound – Awesome Archie -Autism + PDA +

Archie and I are fortunate to be in regular contact with hundreds of neurodivergent families, multiple schools and thousands of online followers . We aim to answer their many questions and always give OUR honest opinion and advice.

I’m sure by now you know that there is NEVER a one size fits all situation and EVERY autistic person is completely unique. Although there are similarities and its those commonalities that are used for a formal diagnosis, the traits” present very differently in everyone. This why official diagnosis has to be done by very well qualified professionals.

For decades, autism has been widely misunderstood by so many— and it feels like nowhere is this more evident than in the way we so often miss or misinterpret the “signs” in girls. Despite the ever growing awareness, many autistic women and girls still go undiagnosed until adulthood, if at all. And by then, they’ve often spent years struggling, masking, and wondering why things feel harder for them than everyone else. This was me!! I was also diagnosed with HFA when all along my anxiety is a byproduct of my AuDHD.

So why does this happen? And more importantly — what can we do to understand ourselves (or our daughters, sisters, nieces, granddaughters, pupils) better?

Autism Was Historically Studied in Boys

Much of the early research into autism was based on young boys, meaning that the diagnostic criteria and examples used for years have been “male-presenting” by default. The old fashioned classic signs — like intense interests in trains or lining up toys — don’t always reflect how autism might look in girls even today!

Newer studies are suggesting that girls often present VERY differently. Their autistic “traits” can often be more internal, less “disruptive”, ( sorry for the negative language, I mean no offence) and more emotionally complex. As a result, many professionals simply don’t recognise them or see them as something else.

---

Girls Are Often The Masters of Masking – I Mask Every Day!

Many autistic girls (and women) become expert social chameleons. From a young age, we have had to learn to copy others, mimic behaviours, and rehearse “scripts” to get through social situations. I did this all through my adolescence but I didn’t even know I was doing it! It was only as we learned about the boys diagnosis we could see the similarities and struggles .

On the outside, we may seem chatty, friendly, or even popular( I know, big headed!) — but inside, we are so often exhausted, anxious, or confused by the constant effort it takes to “fit in.” This is why I try not to fit in any more and adapt my surroundings to be with mostly neurodivegent people or those with a great understanding.

For little girls this masking can hide their challenges so effectively that even teachers, parents, or doctors may not see the signs. But masking doesn’t mean a person is coping — it often means they’re trying to survive. THIS IS NOT SUSTAINABLE!

---

Struggles Are Often Mislabelled

Instead of being identified as autistic, many girls are diagnosed with:

These co-occurring issues may be very real — but they’re often symptoms of undiagnosed autism, not separate diagnosis. Finding the primary diagnosis of AuDHD was what knitted all of my individual challenges to together and has then led for me to have a greater understanding of what I need and why.

Girls might also be labelled as “dramatic,” “moody,” “bossy,” or “shy,” without deeper reflection on what’s underneath those behaviours.

---

So What Can We Do to Help Ourselves and Each Other?

If you think that you or someone you love might be autistic, here are steps you can take to move forward with curiosity and compassion:

1. Learn about female autism traits

Start with voices from autistic women and girls. Look for books, blogs, and videos that reflect your experience — not just clinical lists of symptoms.

Some signs to explore:

2. Speak to professionals who understand female and PDA profiles

Not all GPs or specialists are up to date with modern autism understanding — especially when it comes to girls and women. Look for neuro-affirming professionals, or reach out to charities and organisations that specialise in female autism. We recommend The SENDcast as a great start.

3. Connect with community

Whether online or in person, finding others who “get it” can be life-changing. You’re not alone, and you’re not imagining it. Spaces like Instagram, Facebook groups, and neurodivergent-led podcasts can be great places to start.

4. Reflect on your own journey

Diagnosis is helpful for many, but not always necessary. If learning about autism helps you understand and support yourself or your child better — that insight is powerful in itself. You don’t need permission to be kind to your brain.

---

Missing the signs of autism in girls doesn’t mean we’ve failed — it means we’re still unlearning old ideas. As awareness grows, more and more girls and women are finally seeing themselves clearly for the first time — and learning that their differences are valid, meaningful, and even beautiful.

Autism isn’t just something to be “spotted” — it’s something to be understood, embraced, and supported.

Because when we stop asking, “Why didn’t I see it sooner?” and start asking, “What do I need now?” — that’s when real acceptance and healing begins.

Disclaimer:
The views and experiences shared here are our own and based on our personal journey as a neurodivergent family. We are not medical or clinical professionals. What works for us may not work for everyone. Always seek professional advice if you’re concerned about your child’s needs or development.

There’s a saying that spins around in my head on the really tough days:
“Nothing changes if nothing changes.”

And if you’re, like us, parenting a child with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), that truth hits harder than most.

PDA isn’t just a list of behaviours or seemingly rude outbursts. It’s a neurodivergent profile driven by a deep, anxiety-based need to remain in control. This can mean explosive meltdowns, avoidance so intense it looks like defiance, and seemingly unpredictable reactions to the most basic of requests — brushing of teeth, putting on socks or even playing a game they themselves asked to play just five minutes earlier.

Ian and I started Our journey with Herbie thinking we could parent the way we were taught in the standard parenting books.

” If you are in control of your child at all times then you are an effective parent”

We tried sticker charts, timers, reasoning, “just one more chance,” and all the classic parenting scripts written in the MANY ” be a good Parent” books.

But here’s the thing:
PDA doesn’t play by the typical parenting rules.

And the harsh truth is…
Nothing changes if nothing changes! You HAVE to stop parenting in the way you believe that OTHERS think that you should and parent the way that YOUR child needs you to!

---

You may already know your child has a PDA profile. But knowing it and working with it are two VERY different things.

To see real change — less conflict, more connection and a lot more regulation — we had to stop repeating patterns that simply did’t work. For example, recognising that:

–Demand reduction isn’t giving in.
– Autonomy isn’t permissiveness.
–Collaborative parenting isn’t weakness.

When we started to change how we approached things — from clothing choices to morning routines, homework to how we phrase requests — everything shifted and is continuing to improve every day!

---

We had to learn that Herbie having control of MOST of his decisions wasn’t us loosing him, we were getting him back!!!!

This proved to us that when we change our approach, we’re not giving in — we’re building trust. We’re showing him that he is safe, understood, and that we’re a team.

For you that might look like:

Truthfully, for me as a ” bossy” mum by nature it’s not always easy. It’s not instant. But it has changed our family life for the better.

When We Change, They Feel It

The world isn’t always flexible with our kids. But we can be.
We can stop trying to force compliance and instead nurture collaboration.
We can stop repeating what doesn’t work and take the terrifying step into the unfamiliar.

And every time we’ve done this, we have got closer to our AWESOME child hidden far behind the anxiety.

---

You’re not failing when things feel hard.
You’re not doing it wrong if it’s messy. Neurodivergent parenting is ALWAYS messy, but for us, it is AWESOME!!! So, If you’re stuck in a cycle that’s not working — for you or for your child — take a breath and remember:

“Nothing changes if nothing changes.“

Start small. One phrase. One routine. One moment of curiosity instead of correction. Because those tiny changes? They matter. They build safety, trust, and connection — the foundation your PDA child desperately needs.

And you don’t have to be perfect — just willing to try something different.

---

If you’re parenting a neurodivergent child — perhaps autistic, ADHD, or both — you’ve most likely noticed something beautiful and maybe a bit puzzling:

“They get really, really into things, like they are obsessed” Is a quote from MANY of our parents!

We’re talking obsessed-level focus. Dinosaurs. Minecraft. Trains. Space. Slime. Maps. Washing machines. Ancient Egypt. Pokemon. Spinning things. Insects.One TV show — on repeat for months.

And maybe, at first, you may wonder… or even worry:

These are completely valid questions — but what if we flipped the script?

---

What You’re Seeing Isn’t Just “Fixation” — It’s Monotropism and that’s AWESOME!

Monotropism is a theory that helps explain how many neurodivergent minds work. It means the brain tends to focus deeply on one thing at a time, rather than spreading attention across many things at once.

For many autistic and ADHD children, this isn’t just a preference — it’s how their brain is wired. Deep, focused interest in a specific topic helps them to feel safe, energised, and in control of their world. It’s precisely why I do what I do here at Awesome Archie. This is my monotropic interest and it’s heavenly for me!

---

Why It’s Not Just “Obsessing” — It’s a strength!!!

We often hear words like fixated, stuck, or too much when talking about neurodivergent interests.

But , that intense love for a topic isn’t something to be “cured” or “managed.”
It can be a source of joy, connection, learning — and eventually, even career success.

Some of the world’s most creative, technical, and visionary thinkers have built lives around their so called “obsessions.”

Scientists who were obsessed with bugs as kids. Artists who spent hours hyper-focused on colour mixing. Programmers who memorised code at age 8.

---

For a neurodivergent child, a special interest can:

It’s not about avoiding the world — it’s about finding a way into it.

So what can you do as a parent?

Instead of worrying about their deep interest, try:
✅ Joining in — ask them to teach you something
✅ Using it to build skills (writing, reading, drawing, researching)
✅ Finding community — clubs, forums, online groups
✅ Celebrating it — “I love how passionate you are about this!”

And if the interest does shift over time? That’s okay too. The pattern of deep diving into something still stays — and that’s where the magic is.

---

Your child’s focused passion isn’t something to fix — it’s something to understand, support, and even admire. Monotropism doesn’t limit potential — it fuels it. It can be a treasure!

So next time your child wants to tell you every single fact about the Titanic, or the plot of a show you’ve already heard 100 times, take a breath and smile.

Because this might just be the beginning of something brilliant.

Navigating a child’s neurodivergent journey can be beautiful, challenging, and deeply emotional — especially when you and your partner aren’t on the same page. It’s important to say that Ian, my husband, has always been very open minded and trusting that I, as the full time parent, knew the kids. However, the support we put in place for the kids hasn’t always been agreed by us both. It’s important for us to share how we have navigated this and how we are fully on the same page now. It’s a marathon not a sprint people!

If you’re parenting a neurodivergent child (Autistic, ADHD, or otherwise) and your partner is struggling to accept or acknowledge the challenges your child faces, you are not alone. One of the most common (and frustrating) things parents hear in this situation is:

“Well, I do that too — it’s normal.”

It’s usually said so casually. Maybe defensively. Maybe with love. But it can feel dismissive — not just of your child’s experiences, but of yours too. This can cause real friction within your relationship as you can feel invalided.

So, how do you lovingly but firmly help your partner come to terms with your child’s neurodivergence? Well, here is what has worked for us when talking to family members, friends and colleagues. we hope it helps you too 🙂

---

Start with Compassion and not with Conflict

Your partner is probably really scared. For many people, recognising neurodivergence in their child means grieving the expectations they didn’t even know they had. It can stir up old wounds and force unpleasant memories — especially if they see parts of themselves in your child.

You could always say…
“I know this is a lot to take in. I feel it too. But we can’t support our child properly unless we’re honest about what they need.”

---

Validate Their Feelings and then Redirect

It’s okay to say:

“Yes, lots of people forget things or get overwhelmed. But what we’re seeing in our child is more intense, more frequent, and it’s affecting their daily life. That’s when it goes beyond what some may call “typical’”

Normalize the difference, not just the similarity.

---

If you can, use Real-Life Examples Without Blame

Sometimes, partners need concrete moments to connect the dots.

“When we were at the birthday party and he hid under the table for 30 minutes — that wasn’t just being shy. That was sensory overload. And he needs support for that, not to be told off.”

Stick to observations, not labels. Let the reality speak louder than the potential diagnosis (at first).

---

Offer Information Gently, Not as a Weapon

Throwing a stack of articles or diagnostic criteria at someone in denial rarely works. Instead, try offering one relatable video, a short article, or even a TikTok from a neurodivergent adult.

“I found this video helpful — it’s from someone who was diagnosed late and talks about how it affected their childhood. It really helped.”

Invite curiosity, don’t demand agreement.

---

Be Clear About What Your Child Needs — and Why It Matters Now

Your child is growing. Early understanding = better support = healthier development.

“Whether we label it or not, our child is struggling. They need us to understand them before the world tries to misunderstand them.”

Frame it as proactive love, not some neuroscience lesson.

---

Point to Progress, Not Perfection

Remind your partner this isn’t about “fixing” your child , THEY ARE NOT BROKEN!— it’s about understanding them so they can thrive.

“Neurodivergence isn’t a problem. Ignoring it can be.”

---

Set Boundaries Where Needed

If your partner is repeatedly invalidating, mocking, or refusing to support necessary accommodations (like therapy, sensory tools, or school meetings), it’s okay to draw a line:

“This is not up for debate anymore. Our child’s needs are real, and I’m going to advocate for them — with or without your agreement.”

It doesn’t mean you stop inviting them in. But your child’s wellbeing comes first.

---

Believe us when we say we know that it’s hard — emotionally, mentally, and relationally — when the person who should be your teammate is struggling to see what you see. But change doesn’t always happen overnight.

For more hints and tips, subscribe to our you tube channel 🙂

https://www.youtube.com/@awesomearchieautismsupport

The Zones of Regulation is a widely used framework designed to help children (and adults) better understand and manage their emotions, energy levels, and self-regulation. It’s especially helpful for neurodivergent children, including those with Autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences.

We at Awesome Archie have created some FREE resources to support you. Simply watch the youtube vid linked below and screen grab or download and print the images for your school or home.

---

The 4 Zones of Regulation:

Each zone is represented by a color and associated with different emotional and physical states.

---

🔵 Blue Zone – Low State of Alert

---

🟢 Green Zone – Just Right

---

🟡 Yellow Zone – Heightened State

---

🔴 Red Zone – Extremely Dysregulated

---

🧠 Key Things to Remember:

This week marked a truly special moment in our family’s story — Daisy’s primary school leavers service and walk through the hockey sticks. It has been the kind of week that makes your heart swell and your eyes prickle, full of celebration, reflection, and so much love.

Watching Daisy walk into The Priory church — in her smart uniform, hair neatly plaited , eyes sparkling with excitement — I could hardly believe that we were here already. It feels like just yesterday she was clinging to my hand at the gates of Reception, her backpack WAY too big for her little shoulders. And now, here she is: standing tall, confident, kind, funny, and more ready than ever to take on her next adventure.

The leavers service was beautiful. Full of songs, readings and moments that will stay with us forever. Daisy beamed through it all, singing her heart out, exchanging hugs with her friends, and grinning with pride as she accepted her leavers bible. I could see how loved she is — by her friends, her teachers, and everyone who’s watched her grow these past seven years.

Her last school day began with a boat ride before school and ended with a proud and tearful walk through the hockey stick tunnel and a dip in the splash park wit the whole class!

It’s impossible not to feel a touch emotional — this is the end of an era. But more than anything, it was a celebration of all she’s achieved. Of the friendships she’s made. Of the bravery she’s shown. And of the incredible young person she’s becoming.

As September approaches, we’re feeling hopeful, happy, and deeply grateful. Hopeful for all the exciting things ahead — new teachers, new challenges, new friends to meet. Happy to see Daisy so ready and eager to spread her wings. And grateful to the amazing school community and teachers like Mr Swain and Miss Field that have nurtured her, cheered her on, and helped shape her into the bright star she is.

So here’s to Daisy, and to all the children taking their next big step. You’re more ready than you know. Secondary school, here she comes — full of joy, full of courage, and full of awesome promise.

• 

• 

• 

• 

🌈💛✨

This week marked the end of a truly special chapter in Awesome Archie’s journey — one filled with personal growth, love, and transformation. As he leaves his current specialist school, we find ourselves filled with so many emotions: gratitude, sadness, pride, and hope.

From the moment Archie joined the Link (a specialist hub set in the grounds of broadstone middle school and run by the Winchelsea group) we knew he was in the right place.

This wasn’t just a school. It was a sanctuary. A place where qualifications were important, yes — but never the sole focus. This was a space built on understanding, patience, and purpose. A place that recognised potential not just in grades, but in smiles, in small steps, in confidence gained and challenges overcome.

Over the years, Archie has been nurtured in ways that go far beyond academics. He has learned life skills that will serve him for years to come — how to communicate, how to cope, how to believe in himself.

One of the things Archie loved most was his specialist class — a small, nurturing group where he felt seen, safe, and respected. They just understood him. They were patient with his needs, they listened to his opinions, and they never asked him to be anything other than himself. That kind of acceptance is rare, and it made all the difference..

He’s been surrounded by staff who truly saw him, celebrated him, and helped him to flourish. To all of those staff members, we say thanks. You have been INCREDIBLE from start to finish!

There were days of laughter and days of challenge, but every single moment added something to the wonderful young person he is becoming. To say we’re grateful feels like an understatement. We are forever grateful — for the kindness, the consistency, the creativity, and the unwavering support that your school community has offered our family.

And now, as Archie prepares to step into a new chapter, we carry all those memories and milestones with us. We are so sad to say goodbye to a place that has meant so much for so long — it’s emotional, to say the least. But we are also so proud of how far Archie has come, and so hopeful for what’s to come next.

To everyone who has played a part in this journey: thank you. From the bottom of our hearts.

Here’s to new beginnings — and to never forgetting the path that got us here.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•