A gymnastics coach at North Herts Leisure Centre in Letchworth has been praised for helping transform the confidence of a seven-year-old autistic boy – giving him a sense of belonging and a love for sport.

Orla Murphy, 25, from Baldock, has been recognised for the difference she has made to Ethan McGill, who has been attending gymnastics sessions at the centre for just under a year.

Before joining the programme, Ethan had tried several clubs and activities, but his mum Sophie Boxall said he often struggled to feel comfortable or fully included. His older sister Ava has attended gymnastics sessions at the centre for several years.

Sophie said: "It's just lovely to see Ethan sticking at a club and sport. We have tried so many different clubs and activities, but he never really felt welcomed or he just didn't enjoy them."

That changed when Ethan started gymnastics and quickly formed a strong bond with instructor Orla.

Sophie added: "Navigating the SEN journey can be really daunting. People often make comments and judge and whilst I'm becoming more robust to the comments, it can still feel overwhelming. So finding someone like Orla, who goes the extra mile and is not put off by Ethan – even when he's hanging off her – outweighs all the negativity. It's his absolute favourite day of the week. He's always asking how many more sleeps until he sees Orla again. Orla takes the time to truly listen to Ethan, to understand him, and to encourage him in ways that make him feel safe, confident and believed in. This is the first sport he has truly connected with, and to see him so excited, so proud of himself and so accepted – it means everything. Orla is a true credit to the centre, and we cannot thank her enough for the difference she continues to make."

Orla, who has coached gymnastics for nine years, said seeing Ethan's development both inside and outside the gym has been one of the most rewarding parts of her role.

She said: "Being Ethan's coach is very rewarding because I can see that his confidence has grown beyond gymnastics. He brings joy to everyone in the class and is a very kind and thoughtful boy. Watching him interact with the other participants is beautiful because he is so well liked and accepted for being who he is. When he comes over, full of enthusiasm and excitement because he's been practising his skills at home, that makes me really proud."

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Orla first became involved in gymnastics as a child before volunteering through her Duke of Edinburgh Award, where she says she "fell in love with coaching".

She added: "When I participated as a child, I had a great connection with my coaches. I wanted to continue in gymnastics and help inspire others the way my coaches inspired me. The main aim is to include everyone and make adaptations to help each child achieve their best potential. We have to understand each child's needs and what motivates them. We want everyone to feel comfortable in our sessions."

Paul Dunstan, General Manager at North Herts Leisure Centre, said Ethan's story showed the importance of inclusive sports environments. He said: "It was incredibly moving to hear about Ethan's journey and the positive impact gymnastics – and in particular Orla – has had on his confidence, happiness and sense of belonging. Creating an inclusive environment where every child feels safe, confident and celebrated for who they are is something we care deeply about. We hope Ethan's story encourages other families who may be unsure about taking that first step to feel confident in giving it a try."

The leisure centre is managed by Everyone Active on behalf of North Herts Council.

Councillor Amy Allen, the council's Executive Member for Environment, said: "Ethan's story highlights how important inclusive community spaces are for families across North Herts. The care and patience Orla shows has helped Ethan feel genuinely welcomed, and that can make all the difference."

The centre's gymnastics programme starts with parent-and-child sessions from 18 months old, progressing to coach-led classes from the age of three.

Alongside developing physical skills, the sessions focus on building confidence, coordination and friendships in a supportive environment, with classes designed to be adaptable so children of all abilities can take part and progress at their own pace.