Salutem

09/03/21

Beloved children’s author and comedian David Walliams praised a pupil from Ingfield Manor’s World Book Day costume, causing a photo of the young fan to go viral.

Ellis, 10, who has cerebral palsy, dressed as Jack from Walliams’ 2015 book Grandpa’s Great Escape, converting his wheelchair into a spitfire.

The photograph was shared on David Walliams’ Instagram, dubbed his ‘favourite picture from World Book Day’, and received more than 28k likes from followers.

The post can be found here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CasoHbBLUcN/?utm_medium=copy_link

Nicola Dodds, principal at Ingfield Manor, said: “We’re delighted that David Walliams loved Ellis’ costume just as much as we did, and shared it so all his followers could enjoy it too.

“At Ingfield Manor, we believe it’s important that all children see themselves represented in the world around them and feel empowered to emulate the characters from the stories they love.

“The children love the humour of David Walliams’ stories, so it was really special that he took the time to acknowledge one of our students’ brilliant costumes.”

Ellis’ mum, Una, said: “I was so pleased that Ellis’ costume got such a positive result. It was fun to create and his real grandad even got in on the act, helping me to take Ellis to school. Huge thanks to Ingfield Manor for always making the day fun for all.”

Ingfield Manor School is a non-maintained special school for pupils aged 3–19 with neurological motor impairment such as cerebral palsy with a focus on conductive education. Pupils have a range of abilities and associated learning difficulties arising from cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Some students also have additional needs like visual impairment, hearing impairment and more complex medical needs.

The school is part of the Ambito Education group, managed by Salutem Care and Education, which provides education and support for disabled children and young people, promoting independence, skills and confidence.

ENDS

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Editor’s Notes:

Salutem Ltd is a UK based residential and healthcare operator and investor with 130 services nationwide.

Within its portfolio are:

• Modus Care specialises in support services for those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, learning disabilities and other complex needs. It provides small residential facilities for adults as well as bespoke services.
• Ambito Care and Education comprises the former Scope services which include four education facilities, 30 care homes and ten day services.
• Clearwater Care provides 27 services in the Midlands and South East, for complex needs and severe learning difficulties in residential and supported living.
• Pathways Care Group has 54 homes nationwide for adults with learning difficulties.