The education of children with autism is set to be transformed with the launch of a new scheme between the National Autistic Society (NAS) and Surrey County Council.

Four high-achieving schools, including Hinchley Wood School are due to open centres specifically for educating secondary-age children with autism.

The centres will provide specialist support for 80 pupils with autism, which will allow them to stay in mainstream Surrey schools nearer to home, and save taxpayers £1.7m a year.

Pupils' time will be divided between mainstream classes and the centres, which will focus on social communication and tailored learning techniques.

Linda Kemeny, Surrey County Council cabinet member for schools and learning, said: "We want to ensure all Surrey children get the best education possible, so this partnership will give superb support in mainstream schools to pupils with autism."

The centres will be funded by a £4m donation from the Cullum Family Trust and £200,000 from the council.

Mark Lever, chief executive of the NAS, said: "Many young people with autism can find it difficult to cope in a mainstream school. The NAS Cullum Centres will make this possible by providing autism support tailored to each student, along with the opportunity to participate in mainstream school life and lessons."