A TEACHER who founded street dance group Autism With Attitude, from Hillingdon Manor School, an independent specialist school for children with autism, has won the Inspirational Teacher Award.

Professionally-trained Jonathan Baron introduced dance to the school to provide an expressive outlet on and off the dance floor, with outstanding results.

He received his honour at the National Association for Special Educational Needs Awards.

Jonathan, who formed the dance troupe in 2013, earned the accolade for going beyond the call of duty, delivering an enriched curriculum and empowering each individual to be the best they can be.

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The group made history in May when it finished second in the European United Dance Organisations Championships in Germany, with judges unaware of the students’ autism.

Jonathan said: “It has been so empowering for the students to realise they can do things – they just need the right opportunities and someone to invest in them.”

Sophie Garner, head of service at Hillingdon Manor School in Harlington, added: “Jonathan has demonstrated his outstanding commitment to every individual – this award is very well deserved.”