THE parents of a teenager with autism have praised a special school in Bolton for its level of care.

Debi Walker said Birtenshaw in Bromley Cross has helped to bring out the best in her 13-year-old son Ryan who was diagnosed with the developmental condition aged eight.

The mum-of-two, aged 42, said that since her and her husband Dave, aged 45, sent him into special needs education their son has blossomed into a "determined youngster" with a "wicked sense of humour".

After a spell in Millwood Primary Special School in Radcliffe, he moved to Birtenshaw when he was 12.

Mrs Walker, from Bradley Fold, has spoken out to mark World Autism Week.

She said: "We knew from the beginning that Ryan would have a high level of support needs. It presents a lot of challenges, such as managing his behaviour, social interaction and communication.

"Despite everything he's so determined and outgoing. He's a real character with a wicked sense of humour and loves football. He doesn't have an understanding or interest in following a team — he just enjoys it as a sport. He also loves our dog Max too.

"Putting him into special school was the best decision we made. We tried mainstream for a short time but it didn't work.

"The school is fabulous with him. It's like an unspoken trust — I know he will be okay there and will do well. It's about having the right people around him who can bring out the best in him."

Mrs Walker, who runs Bury Parents' Forum, admits it can be a challenge to take Ryan out, but she is keen he is visible to the public and is able to enjoy the outdoors like any other teenager.

She said: "I think over the years as a family we have become more confident. When we're out and about we manage him as best we can to help him reach his potential. Some people are ignorant and don't understand it if he behaves in a certain way.

"I thought it would be really difficult for him to move schools but the teachers have been amazing, which reduces your anxiety as a parent."

Birtenshaw, established in the 1950s by a group of parents as a special school for young children with cerebral palsy, provides services for children and adults with a learning disability including autism, and significant physical disability, including complex health needs.

A spokesman for the school said: "We ensure the children and young people we support have the same learning and social opportunities as other children.

"Autism awareness week is important to raise funds to support people with autism to live the lives they choose and increase the profile and the public's understanding about what autism is.

"There are many myths about the condition and Autism Awareness Week educates people about what it actually is and how to support those with it."

World Autism Week runs until April 2. For more information visit autism.org.uk