A SCHOOL for children with autism will be officially opened by Her Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex next month.

LVS Oxford, in Begbroke, opened its doors in September 2014 and offers a supported learning environment for 48 youngsters on the autism spectrum.

On Thursday, May 19, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, a patron of the National Autistic Society, will host an official launch and take a tour of the school's facilities.

Head of centre Louisa Allison-Bergin said: “We are very excited and honoured that LVS Oxford will be opened by HRH The Countess of Wessex.

"Our skilled and experienced staff are having a hugely positive effect on learners, developing their life skills to help them become independent, boosting their academic progress to help them move on to destinations beyond the school and helping build their confidence and communication skills.

"On May 19 they will have the chance to show the Countess how well they are doing and what learners with autism can achieve with a positive, unique education."

When LVS first opened it catered for just 16 learners from 11 to 19 years old, a number which has since snowballed, with students hailing from 11 different local authorities.

Last year it introduced a student council and Head Boy and Head Girl, who will meet Her Royal Highness at the event in May alongside other students.