Construction is underway at Prior’s Court for a unique arts centre, the Let Me Shine Performing Arts Centre, designed specifically for autistic young people with complex needs. This innovative facility, located in Berkshire, is transforming an existing building, and is expected to open in the 2024/25 school year.

The centre will offer adapted facilities for music, dance, and drama, addressing the challenges autistic individuals face in accessing the arts, such as sensitivities to sensory stimuli and social interactions. It aims to simulate real theatre environments to prepare students for community arts venues and provide a space for creative expression.

Sue Piper, Director of Learning at Prior’s Court, shared her excitement about the project’s progress. She emphasised its uniqueness in catering to the needs of autistic individuals with complex needs. Piper highlighted the importance of the arts in communication for those who are pre-verbal and advocated for inclusive access to the arts for all. Piper thanked the various supporters who have contributed to the project’s development.

Prior’s Court also plans to use the centre as a base for researching best practices in supporting access to the arts for autistic individuals and sharing these insights with the education and performing arts sectors nationwide and internationally.