Unit 5: Supporting pupils with autism

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. This in turn impacts on the learning of pupils with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD).

Teachers are responsible for the learning of all pupils, including those with ASD. Therefore, it is vital that teachers know how to provide effective support for these pupils. This unit provides advice and guidance on how to overcome barriers to learning and help pupils form relationships.

• Recognise the key characteristics of ASD and how it can affect children.
• Identify how it may affect pupils’ learning.
• Develop your ability to support pupils with ASD to overcome barriers to learning and achieve expected levels of progress.