THREE Worcester mothers who vowed to teach their autistic children at home after council officers threatened to send them to school in Redditch have claimed a victory.

Worcestershire County Council has overturned a previous decision and agreed the children can be taught at a unit that will be created at Thornton House school.

All three mothers felt the youngsters could not cope with the one-hour journey to Redditch.

Zoey Carter, whose son Jack is severely autistic, said they were very pleased to have received official confirmation from the council.

She said Jack would be able to stay in the nursery unit at Thornton House where he currently attends until the new unit is set up.

"After a very difficult meeting, the LEA has decided to put a package together for us," she said.

"We are very pleased, and it just goes to show what you can get if you push hard enough.

"It is the best thing for Jack, and I am pleased we didn't just accept it."

Difficulties

The three sets of parents are next meeting with the school to discuss the plans on Tuesday, August 27.

Ruth Chiva, head of services for schools at Worcestershire County Council, said the move was good news for the children.

"Initially, there were organisational difficulties in providing the type of supportive environment for these boys in the Worcester area, which is why the suggestion was made that they might be transported to an alternative school in Redditch.

"This was obviously not an ideal solution, and unacceptable to the parents.

"Thornton House School staff and County Council officers will be working over the summer to ensure that the appropriate provision is available at Thornton House in September.

"This is good news for everyone and demonstrates we are committed to supporting children and their families within their own communities."