The 18-year-old pupil who took these photographs suffers from Asperger’s syndrome. But that has not stopped him doing work experience with a theatre company or writing a description of his school to send to Friday magazine with his pictures. His headteacher, Ronwen Smith, says: “David loves drama and the arts.” Linden Bridge is a school for children with social and communication problems. There are 107 pupils, aged five to 19, who are taught by 19 teachers with 16 assistants. Other pupils have gone on to do work experience in IT and catering, and some are sitting a GCSE. “We offer structure and routine for youngsters who find it extremely difficult to communicate,” says Mrs Smith. The school was one of the first to be awarded beacon status and offers Saturday and evening courses for teachers wh want to learn about special needs. The school works closely with parents; they are currently helping to raise pound;300,000 for a new swimming pool, and have already organised a rock concert, quiz nights and other social events. “Swimming is a very important part of the curriculum for a school like this. It is one thing that all the pupils can take part in,” says Mrs Smith.

It’s a snip: Oliver’s project’s nearly finished

Make it snacky: break in the refectory

Left, Jeremy, and, right, Yves, work in the art room for their expressive arts certificates

Glade runner: preparatory work for an art project in Ewell Park

Just like spring: primary pupils walk in Ewell Court Park

Key stage: Steven and Oliver log on at Merton college where they attend a weekly ICT course

Sayonara: goodbye in Japanese as Mari returns home

Snaps by David Donoghue