SCHOOL pupils met students from a nearby college as part of a new community scheme.

Youngsters at LVS Hassocks were put through their paces in a training session hosted by sports leaders from Hurstpierpoint College’s lower sixth classes.

Teachers at the school, which has pupils aged between 11 and 19 who are on the autistic spectrum, said the link between the two places was a great opportunity for students to learn from one another.

Headteacher Jen Weeks said: “This link-up is of huge benefit to both schools.

“For LVS Hassocks it is a great opportunity to give our students regular access to neurotypical (those without autism) peers who can be positive role models for them to look up to.

“This is encouraging our students to throw themselves into sporting activities which they may otherwise have been reluctant to engage with, so it is broadening their skills and experiences beyond what might have been possible before.”

Students at LVS Hassocks were taught how to play a range of different sports including basketball, hula hoops, skipping and throwing at targets during weekly sessions.

They were paired with buddies from the college who helped them develop their skills, and many of the groups developed their own special handshakes as a way of greeting one another and celebrating.

The link between the two schools is now in its second year.

Hurstpierpoint College sports teacher Simon Lilley said: “Working with LVS Hassocks was the undoubted highlight for our sixth form sports leaders last year and we have been looking forward to coming back since September.”