A QUARTER of all pupils in Inverclyde schools are recognised as having additional support needs.

A study by a national campaign group shows that the district compares favourably with other areas when it comes to identifying young people who need more support in the classroom.

It also shows that the number of young people diagnosed with conditions such as autism has risen sharply in the last five years.

Local support group Reach for Autism have welcomed the findings and praised education bosses.

Charity founder Vicki McCarthy said: “There has been a big improvement in the support and recognition for children on the autistic spectrum.

“There is a greater understanding in Inverclyde of autism and a willingness to support pupils.

“We have a great relationship with the education department.

“But there is always room for improvement.”

In 2011 around 15 per cent of pupils in Inverclyde were recognised as needing extra support.

The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition, made up of voluntary and third sector providers, produced the report.

It shows an alarming disparity in the number of children recognised with additional support needs, with some local authorities having figures as low as eight per cent.

This has raised concerns about a ‘post code lottery’ where not all pupils get the support they need.