A PUPIL with autism who spent almost three years out of education has been given a leadership role at his new school.

Craig Harris has become deputy head boy at LVS Oxford in Begbroke near Kidlington after a remarkable transformation.

The 15-year-old missed year eight, year nine and all but the first few weeks of year seven at a mainstream school that could not cope with his behavioural issues.

Mum Debbie said she was amazed at his transformation in the space of just a year at the school which caters for pupils on the autistic spectrum.

She said: "Craig wouldn’t interact with anyone due to anxiety.

"He was petrified of education and used to throw his uniform out of the window.

"We came for a look around LVS Oxford to see if an special educational needs school would be the answer and it was – it is a lovely peaceful place with beautiful grounds, and Craig needs a quiet relaxing environment."

Craig joined the school in a gradual process over five months with home visits and then trips to school to visit the therapy room for chats to reduce anxiety followed by visits for lunch with the therapists to develop trust.

Last month he wrote a formal letter applying for the role of head boy, stating: "I want to make an impact on the world and inspire other young people with autism.

"What I want is people with autism to achieve things that others would be too scared to even start, instead of trying to hide it from the world."

Craig was awarded the deputy head boy role which means he will represent the school publicly, help run and stage events and show guests and prospective new families around.

Ms Harris said: "He has changed a lot since joining LVS Oxford last year.

"He is much more confident and sociable – before he wouldn’t go anywhere, now he comes out with family friends and for meals.

"He is now part of the family again whereas before he was alienated."

Craig has opted to do a BTEC in business studies and his main passion at the school is English and drama.

He is also gaining life skills he needs to live independently as an adult and building his confidence to deal with social situations.