A life dedicated to awareness, education and change.
Education, family and the start of change
Faced with the lack of suitable educational provision, Anna and her husband remortgaged their home to open Hillingdon Manor School in 1999 — a pioneering school for autistic children that grew from just 19 pupils to a thriving educational community.
She has since played a key role in establishing two schools, a college and a respite home, alongside her charity Anna Kennedy Online.
Campaigns, training and national awareness
Anna’s initiatives include the internationally celebrated Autism’s Got Talent, the Autism Hero Awards, national anti-bullying campaigns and accessible online training for parents, professionals and autistic individuals.
Her work has also extended to policy and training projects with organisations including the NSPCC, Childline and the Metropolitan Police.
Recognition and public voice
Anna was awarded an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II in 2012 and has received an honorary doctorate from Teesside University, alongside multiple community awards recognising her dedication and impact.
In 2023, she was named a Lorraine’s Women of the Year Finalist.
Media, writing and advocacy
Anna appeared on BBC’s The People’s Strictly for Comic Relief in 2015 and is also the author of the bestselling memoir Not Stupid.
Through every platform, she continues to champion acceptance, understanding and meaningful inclusion.
Key moments in Anna’s journey.
1999
Hillingdon Manor School opened as a pioneering school for autistic children.
2012
Anna was awarded an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II.
2015
Anna appeared on BBC’s The People’s Strictly for Comic Relief.
2023
Anna was named a Lorraine’s Women of the Year Finalist.
Watch Anna’s story, campaigns and media moments.
Anna Kennedy OBE — Woman of the Year 2023 Finalist
A featured media moment celebrating Anna Kennedy OBE and her work raising autism awareness.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II honours Anna Kennedy
A significant recognition moment from the AKO archive.
TEDx: Autism Is An Inspiration, Not An Illness
A powerful talk challenging stigma and reframing understanding.
Anna & Robin Charleston — The People’s Strictly (2015)
A memorable performance from The People’s Strictly journey.
Autism's Got Talent — BBC Breakfast
Coverage celebrating autistic talent and the AKO community.
Petition to Number 10 — Who will look after our children?
A campaign moment focused on care, support and long-term concerns.
Anna's News Archive
Who will look after my autistic sons when I'm no longer around?
Anna Kennedy OBE speaks to ITV News about long-term care worries for her autistic sons and calls for better support for unpaid carers.
Anna Kennedy opens a school for autistic children
A BBC News report on Anna Kennedy opening a school for autistic children after fighting for better support and education provision.
Autism mum's OBE
ITV News covered Anna Kennedy receiving an OBE for services to special needs education and autism.
Autism campaigner's anti-bullying mission
ITV News reported on Anna Kennedy’s “Give Us a Break” anti-bullying campaign during Autism Awareness Month.
Anna Kennedy on BBC One
BBC One profiled Anna Kennedy as part of The People’s Strictly for Comic Relief.
South Essex College highlights AKO-linked student story
South Essex College highlighted Ethan Khumalo and noted his involvement with Anna Kennedy Online.
Anna Kennedy OBE
Founder of Anna Kennedy Online
Founder Message
A charity built from lived experience, care and determination.
Anna’s journey as a mother led her to dedicate her life to supporting autistic people and their families.
“Take it one day at a time, seek the right support, and remember to care for yourself too.”