PARALYMPIC athletes Rik Waddon and Natalie Waddon Jones have helped two Manchester schools celebrate the launch of their ‘multi academy trust’ at a school sports day.

Pupils, teachers and parents at Manor High Special School and Pictor Special School were all encouraged to get involved in what was a very special day for everyone, as the trust begins its mission to secure opportunities for children with special needs through education.

All the traditional sports day races were held - even if things did get a little competitive in the presence of Paralympic royalty.

The trust will be known as The Sovereign Trust and has a board of eight directors made up of the two head teachers and six governors, one of which is Ian McGrath, director of Sale based autism charity Hearts & Minds Challenge.

The two schools will officially become trust academies in the new school year.

Pictor School in Timperley caters for pupils aged two to 11 and Manor High in Sale takes students between 11 and 18.

Manor High School is a special school for those aged 11-18, and specialises in pupils who have learning difficulties, Autistic Spectrum Condition and social, emotional or mental health.

Bev Owens, headteacher at Pictor School said “We already work closely with Manor High but to now have a formal trust in place is an exciting development. We will be sharing expertise in our curriculum and assessment development."

Helen Wilson, headteacher of Manor High School said “Our mission statement of ‘succeeding together’ really encompasses the very essence of our learning community where every individual is valued for the part they can achieve."

Hearts and Minds director Ian McGrath said: “By bringing the two schools together and forming The Sovereign Trust, we believe we can achieve our goal of ensuring that all children receive the best possible education and support, which ultimately leads to employment and equality of living opportunities."