Understanding Autism

About the course

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) encompass a range of developmental conditions characterided by difficulties in social interaction, communication challenges, and often repetitive behaviours. Each individual with ASD experiences a unique combination of these characteristics, leading to a spectrum that includes varying levels of support needs and abilities.

Since the 1990s, there has been a significant rise in the number of autistic people identified, with current estimates suggesting that up to 1% of the global population is on the autism spectrum. This increase underscores the importance of specialised understanding and skills to support autistic individuals in our schools, communities, and families. This course addresses this need by offering flexible and accessible training that equips participants with the necessary knowledge and skills, emphasising neuroaffirmative practices that validate and celebrate the neurodiversity of autistic individuals.

Who is this course for?

This course is designed to help teachers, parents, and allied professionals gain the confidence and expertise to effectively support autistic children and young people. It is also valuable for inclusion managers, Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs), educational psychologists, teaching assistants, special needs assistants (SNAs), social care workers, and local authority support team members. The course aims to create an inclusive learning environment that respects and celebrates the unique strengths and perspectives of autistic individuals, promoting neuroaffirmative practices that enhance the well-being and development of all learners.

Approved by the Department of Education

This course is approved by the Department of Education.

Three EPV days are allowed for primary school teachers who take the course during the summer term. Please note this provision applies only to the summer term as per Department guidelines.

This course has four terms each year: Spring, May/June, Summer & Autumn.

From the search for an explanation to diagnosis, assessment, proven interventions, and teaching approaches, this course provides a clear route to understanding the complexity of ASD. Drawing on the latest neuroscience and research and including the diagnostic implications of the DSM-5, it will guide you through constructive, evidence-based, and contextually relevant ways to help autistic children and young people realise their full potential.  

Participants will gain familiarity with current theories and perspectives on ASD and their implications for practice. The course includes comprehensive coverage of early identification, assessment, and diagnostic procedures, as well as individual educational planning and early intervention approaches such as EarlyBird and LEAP. Various models of intervention, including TEACCH, Pivotal Response Training, and FloorTime, are detailed and explained. Effective teaching approaches and adaptations for students with ASD are reviewed, offering practical strategies and techniques for optimising learning and behaviour. Strategies for preventing and addressing challenging behaviours are explored, alongside methods for supporting the emotional development and well-being of autistic children and young people. The course incorporates the perspectives and experiences of autistic individuals and their families through videos and interviews, providing valuable insights into their lived experiences. 

Key highlights

• Gain practical skills for the identification, assessment, and support of autistic children and young people in various settings.
• Learn how to develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for your students with ASD.
• Review best practice teaching approaches for working with autistic students and addressing their learning differences and specific needs.
• Learn effective strategies for increasing positive behavior and decreasing undesirable behavior.
• Acquire proven practical techniques and exercises for building social and communication skills in children with ASD.
• Gain a wealth of strategies for supporting children with sensory issues, anxiety, and emotional and relationship difficulties related to ASD.
• Enjoy rich opportunities for collaboration with our online network of learners and tutors.
• Save printable course materials and resources for future reference.