Prior's Court young people, their families, and staff came together on Friday, July for the very first Starlight Party - a prom-style celebration marking the achievements of our Class of 2026 graduates and all our Post-16 young people.

Held at the Piper Arts Centre, the event was created to give young people the chance to celebrate their graduation, or their peers' graduation, in a way that truly worked for them.

Mainstream school proms can sometimes feel overwhelming, so the Starlight Party was designed as a more comfortable, inclusive, and enjoyable alternative - a space where our young people could celebrate at their own pace, alongside the people who matter most to them.

An evening of celebration

There was plenty for everyone to enjoy at the event held in Piper Arts Centre.

A main disco kept the energy high, while a separate silent disco offered a quieter space for those who preferred it. A photobooth with dress-up options gave young people, families, and staff the chance to capture some wonderful memories, and there were star-themed arts and crafts to get involved with throughout the evening. A buffet-style dinner brought everyone together to round off the night.

Many young people and staff arrived in prom-style attire or their favourite outfits, adding to the sense of occasion and making the evening feel truly special.

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Celebrating in their own way

Kayleigh Rockell, Events and Community Engagement Officer at Prior's Court, said: "At the heart of the Starlight Party was a simple aim - to create a meaningful experience where the autistic young people with complex needs we support could celebrate a significant milestone in their own way, and make lasting memories with their families. Seeing young people and their loved ones enjoy the evening together was exactly what we hoped for.

"Thank you to everyone who helped bring the event to life, and to the families who joined us to make it such a warm and happyn occasion."

One parent added: "The evening was fabulous - such special memories for us as families, and the young people had a blast! Thank you for giving us the opportunity."

Catch up on Graduation 2026