TALENTED youngsters with autism showed off their business and performance skills at their school.

The pupils and students at LVS Hassocks held a market where they sold items they had made, including gifts, candles, and biscuits.

There were also stalls such as games and a tombola, and students got hands-on work experience at the Oast Cafe, which is in the grounds of the school in London Road, Sayers Common.

Among the students learning about the hospitality industry were Joseph and Carl, pictured right, with volunteers and staff.

Then there was a talent show hosted at the school, where youngsters demonstrated their talent on the last day of term.

Schools special educational needs (SEN) director Sarah Sherwood said: “Students put on their own talent contest of dance and solo music performances.

“With autistic children often finding social interaction difficult and finding it hard to make eye contact and express themselves.

“It was a testament to the work of staff in helping to build the pupils’ confidence that so many took to the stage in front of all parents and families present.”

“Students to demonstrate the wide range of skills they have been learning, from making items and baking to customer service, performance skills and in all cases increased confidence.

“Our goal is to give students the skills to be independent when they leave here, and today so many of them have demonstrated those key skills”.