The principal of an Ealing autistic school who has worked there for almost 27 years has been shortlisted for a national autism award.

Chloe Phillips, principal of Sybil Elgar School, Southall , Ealing, is up for the Award for Achievement at the Autism Professionals Awards 2016.

Ms Phillips, who has held the position of principal for 20 years, is one of three finalists shortlisted by a panel of 11 experts based on the difference she has made to autistic children and young people.

She said: "This is a huge honour and one that I want to share with the brilliant team we have at the school and Children’s Home.

"Sybil Elgar was the first autism-specific school in the UK and opened at a time when autistic children were often written off and hidden away from society.

"But, the success of our students shows just how far we’ve come.

"There’s still a long way to go but it speaks volumes that almost all of our students are well placed to go on to further learning in education, care settings or employment.

"Autism can have a profound impact on an individual and their family, but we see every day how the right help and support can help every student to fulfil their potential."

The school is claimed to be the first autism specific school to open in the UK, 50 years ago, and Ms Phillips has been praised by judges for her position in its sustainability.

The award ceremony, run by the National Autistic Society, will be held on March 1 in Telford.

Paul Kavanagh, deputy principal at Sybil Elgar School, added: "Chloe is like a master chess player, always thinking five moves ahead."