2. School and learning

A school building. Above it is an icon showing importance.

We believe that school and learning are important for making sure everyone can do well in life.
A teacher supporting a child in the classroom.

We want to make sure Autistic students of all ages can get support to learn.
A parent with a young child getting support from a professional.

This includes getting support as early as possible in life.
A teacher giving a presentation to a class of students, and an icon of 2 curved arrows following each other to show change.

And support to:

  • change classes each year
  • move from one school to another
  • finish school and start working.
A student at a desk with a thought bubble showing a problem icon.

Schools can be difficult for Autistic students.

Sometimes they need extra support.
A person thinking, with a thought bubble showing a head with the brain highlighted and an infinity sign. There is a question mark on it.

This can be because people don’t understand the ways Autistic students learn and behave.

This includes:
A group of students in school uniform smiling together.
  • other students
A teacher smiling in a classroom.
  • teachers.
A person with their hand raised outside a school, with a problem icon.

This can make it hard for Autistic students to take part in school and learning.
A student working at a desk. An adult is also at the desk with a speech bubble.

Schools are also more likely to stop Autistic students from going to school.
A student working at a desk. An adult is also at the desk with a speech bubble.

This can happen when the school:

  • thinks an Autistic student is behaving badly
  • doesn’t understand autism.
A student working at a desk. An adult is also at the desk with a speech bubble.

It’s important for Autistic students to get the right support when they need it.

What we will do

A teacher giving a presentation to a class and an inclusive icon.

We will make schools more inclusive of Autistic people.

This includes:
A child and their teacher at preschool.
  • preschools
A student at primary school
  • primary schools
Two students in high school using a computer. A teacher is helping them.
  • secondary schools.
A person with a thought bubble showing a head with the brain highlighted and an infinity sign.

We will also support school staff to understand autism better.
A teacher supporting an Autistic student.

This includes:

  • teachers
  • support staff.
A worker supporting someone. Above them is a tool and a hrad hat.

We will look at ways to support Autistic students when they leave school.

For example, to get a job or go to university.

We will also make sure each Autistic person can get supports that:
A worker supporting someone, with a thought bubble showing a head with the brain highlighted and an infinity sign. There is a tick on it.
  • understand the different ways people can experience autism
A person is being supported by a worker. They have a speech bubble showing a tick.
  • are right for them and what they need.