Portland College is celebrating double success at the prestigious Autism Hero Awards.

The Mansfield college was crowned leading business in celebration of its commitment to supporting people with Autism.

And Mark Morton, positive behaviour support manager at Portland College, received a special commendation in the Lifetime Award category for the positive impact he has on the lives of so many people with Autism.

About to enter into its 70th year, Portland College has a strong and proven history of helping disabled people to realise their full potential. It is a vibrant national college for people with a wide range of disabilities, and a centre of excellence for people with Autism.

In 2016 it achieved accreditation through the National Autistic Society, and earlier this year was granted Advanced Accreditation, the highest accolade possible. It has several staff with Autism.

Mark Dale, principal and chief executive, said: “We started our journey to excellence with our first dedicated provision for people with Autism in 2010.

“Over the years we have developed and grown, and trained all our staff to understand and support learners with Autism. I am so proud of the whole team.”