Autism is a complex condition, which affects communication, social interaction, flexible thinking and sensory processing. More than 700,000 people have this condition. 

Education is a key part in any child's life, yet many autistic children are not getting to support and education they need. While special needs schools are available, many are not able to access these due to not meeting certain criteria. 71% of autistic children access mainstream school. Alarmingly mainstream schools are frequently neither fully equipped or trained to deal with the needs of autistic individuals. 

Many children are falling behind in education and mental health also suffers due to stress. Little changes to their day can make a huge impact on their school experience. For example, extra processing times, sensory breaks to avoid sensory overload, and tailored education plan to highlight their weaknesses as well as their strengths. EHCP are currently available, yet many schools are not educated enough to properly recognise when an individual needs this. Parents can apply without schools support, but without school support its hard to get one. Also I find disheartening, is the fact that younger children in mainstream schools, are less likely to get an EHCP, according to many professionals in the field, that I have spoken to. 

I'm calling for all mainstream teachers to receive compulsory basic autism training to confidently teach these individuals successfully. Thank you for your support