Autism

What support is available for autistic students in FE?

FE colleges have a legal duty to provide academic and wellbeing support for declared learning needs like autism, including tutoring, mentoring, assistive tech aids, extended exam times, and individual learning plans mapping customized accommodations. Quiet study spaces and sensory rooms address sensory issues.

How are autistic students identified and assessed?

During enrollment, FE applicants register learning support requirements and provide evidence of needs like medical letters, EHC plans, or prior school Individual Education Programs (IEPs). Needs assessors further evaluate students and help coordinate individualized provisions tailored for academic participation and college life.

What training do FE staff have around autism?

FE staff, including lecturers, tutors, and support workers, undergo regular autism inclusion training. This covers communication strategies, accommodations for autistic learners, promoting understanding amongst the broader student body, and college commitments under the Equality Act. Specialized autism liaison officers oversee implementation.

How can FE improve the experience for autistic learners?

Key recommendations include transition programs preparing autistic students for a new college setting, staff training to avoid overload or overstimulation when delivering lessons, autism ambassador roles amongst students to foster community, extending exam provisions uniformly, and ensuring notice is given for timetabling changes.

Do autistic students have priority for apprenticeships?

Yes, employers currently “ring-fence” 3.2% of new apprenticeship jobs specifically for applicants with an autism diagnosis. This provides a special entry route for autistic applicants meeting core requirements for an apprenticeship program in areas aligned to their strengths and interests.