AN AUTISTIC teenager has been elected president of Waltham Forest College Student Union.

James Kennedy, who has had to cope with speech and language difficulties, has spoken of his “amazement” at the respect shown to him since taking up the role.

The 18-year-old, of Echo Drive, Chingford, was regularly bullied at school, but has flourished since joining the Forest Road college.

He said: “It was a bit of a struggle. The other pupils made fun of me which made me upset and confused.

“They took me for granted and left me out of things, though towards the end they were a bit more relaxed with me.”

After deciding to stand for election, James opted for the personal touch on the campaign trail.

He said: “It was a week long campaign and I focused on issues such as enrichment and improving students’ learning.

“I managed to talk to a lot of people individually so I could connect with them and try to get their views on what they would like to see in terms of moving the college on, but I was very surprised when I won.”

Mr Kennedy says he has encountered none of the bullying and disrespect he encountered at secondary school since taking office.

He said: “Already this term we have organised a cultural show for Black History Month and a Question Time event between Christian and Islamic groups.

“It is important for students to learn about each other’s cultures.”

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