An Amman Valley primary school has become the first Welsh school in Neath Part Talbot to gain Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) awareness school status.

Ysgol Gwaun Cae Gurwen has successful completed the Learning With Autism primary school programme set up by ASD Info Wales.

Martin Evans, Head teacher of Ysgol Gymraeg Gwaun cae Gurwen told The Guardian: "We are extremely privileged for this accreditation which has consisted of pupils, teachers and governors hard work to achieve.

"The programme has helped us a school by proving us with more knowledge regarding ASD."

ALN co-ordinator Lia Rideout added: "We began the programme in October 2018.

"It has been extremely beneficial for all staff and children.

"We have noticed that the children have become more sensitive towards their peers.

"There have been several training sessions for staff and governors and our junior pupils took part in a questionnaire assessment.

"We are extremely happy to be recognised."

It is estimated that ASD affects 1 in 100 people.

A spokesperson for the Welsh Local Government Association said: "I am delighted to see Neath Port Talbot CBC supporting the rollout of the Learning with Autism programme.

"12 primary school settings have now successfully completed the free 'Learning with Autism' programme in the County Borough, and we look forward to seeing more primary schools making use of the excellent free to use bi-lingual resources.

"It is vital that we raise awareness of ASD to better support autistic individuals and understand their needs."

A spokesman for Neath Port Talbot Council said: "Ysgol Gymraeg Gwaun Cae Gurwen has become the first Welsh school in Neath Port Talbot to gain Welsh Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) awareness school status.

"This school is one of 12 primary schools and one secondary school to achieve the award to date in Neath Port Talbot.

"We are extremely proud of our schools for embracing this award and ensuring the needs of children and young people with ASD are being met.

"To date, 376 teachers and teaching assistants have been trained by our ASD Advisory Service, through a rolling programme of support, to ensure this approach is developed as a sustainable model for all our schools."