A NORTON primary school has become the first in Dudley borough with a specialist unit dedicated to helping autistic children join mainstream classes.

Gig Mill School on The Broadway has officially launched its Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Base for up to eight children.

The unit will provide specialist support from staff with training and experience of working with youngsters with learning difficulties.

Gig Mill headteacher, Phil Raybould, said: “The Base provides and delivers specialist educational provision in order to enable appropriate access to the mainstream curriculum and school environment, whilst supporting the educational, social and emotional development of the children.”

A similar unit for secondary school age children in Dudley is already open in Sedgley.