The Countess of Wessex with pupils at NAS Helen Allison School, Meopham

The Countess of Wessex brought smiles to the faces of several youngsters when she paid them a visit at their school.

Her Royal Highness met students and staff at the Helen Allison School in Longfield Road, Meopham, which is run by The National Autistic Society (NAS), the UK’s leading charity for people with autism. The Countess is patron of the charity.

The royal guest was given a guided tour of the school, which is for young people aged 5-19 on the autistic spectrum, before meeting pupils to find out how NAS Helen Allison School has helped them.

Executive principal Dr Jacqui Ashton Smith said: "We were delighted to welcome Her Royal Highness to our school and show her how we support people who have autism.

"The Countess took time to listen to pupils and hear their plans for the future. Her Royal Highness commended the teachers for their commitment.

"Everyone will remember this occasion for a long time to come."

The Countess spent time talking with Sam, 18, and Lenny, age 17, and heard how the school has prepared them for college and life after education.

She also chatted to 12-year-old Joseph who presented her with a book containing a picture drawn by each pupil at the school, before speaking to Niamh, also 12, who presented her with a small posy of flowers.

Her Royal Highness then mixed with other guests and talked with teachers and the families of children who attend the school.

The visit happened last Thursday.