PUPILS from a special school in Yate were given the star treatment at their end of year prom on Saturday thanks to the generosity of several local businesses. 

A red carpet was rolled out to welcome youngsters from Culverhill School, which provides education for children with special educational needs, to an Oscar-themed bash at the Armadillo Youth Café.

The event was organised by parents Jason Perkins and Suzanne Josham, who wanted to give the teenagers “a night to remember”.

They were sponsored by a variety of local businesses, including Jason’s employer, WH Bence, who funded most of the costs involved.

Suzanne, who works in the catering business, said that the night was the "best prom" she has ever seen.

She added: “Just because the pupils have special needs, it doesn’t mean they should miss out on having a prom.

"It’s been an absolute pleasure to organise tonight and to see everyone having fun.

“I would like to thank all of the businesses and volunteers who helped to make this evening possible.”

The night kicked off with a non-alcoholic cocktail reception and a photography session with Rich McD Photography. 

Pupils then enjoyed a two-course meal of burgers, hot dogs and sundaes while listening to live performances from BALPA Music singers Leanne Goudie, Lucy Parish and Matt Bird.

Entertainment was provided by Year 8 Culverhill pupil ‘DJ Josh’, who also worked as an MC on the night.

Abi Whitaker, whose sister Gema Norris is a pupil at Culverhill School, praised the organisers and businesses who helped to make the prom possible. 

“It’s really nice that Gema is being treated the same as pupils in mainstream schools,” she said. 

“Last year’s school leavers didn’t get anything like this.”

The pupils left the prom with a special goody bag containing their very own Oscar statue, sweets and a homemade brownie made by Hobbs House Bakery.

Other businesses who helped to make the event a success included: All Signs,  Future Brides, Fired Up Ceramics, C J Prop and Event Hire, JK Rowling Fan Club, Morrisons, Bath Racecourse and Clear Brew Bath.

The pupils will also enjoy a buffet and celebration at Culverhill School on Thursday, June 29.