Supporting autistic students in Further and Higher Education Annie Watson Network Advisor Autism Network Scotland

Autism Network Scotland: A hub of impartial and reliable information about autism Signposts individuals on the autistic spectrum, their families and carers & practitioners to local services Facilitates networks to support knowledge exchange & promote awareness of autism Facilitates independent consultation and/or networking for local authorities Supports the Scottish Strategy for Autism

What are some of the barriers to learning for students on the autism spectrum?

Transitions – Into College/University – Through College/University – Out of College/University – Horizontal vs Vertical transitions E.g. During one day: different lecturers, different teaching styles, different activities, different rooms

Unstructured time Lack of routine Reliance on self management of time Unclear where to go – E.g. during breaks, where to buy lunch Unclear support structures Lack of named person/contact to go to

Social environment Peer pressure Emphasis on group work Disclosure of diagnosis Anxiety Practical – transport to and from College/University

How can we overcome some of these barriers?

Clear communication Clear structures and procedures Planning and support through times of change Proactive offering of support What is good practice for students on the autism spectrum will often benefit all:

Support through transitions – Some Universities/Colleges have dedicated Transitions programmes for new autistic students Provide detailed information Prepare for changes Buddy/mentoring systems

Support to structure free study time – Timetables, reminders, apps Support to develop own routine Needs assessment prior to starting – As well as academic needs, consider time management and planning support, and any support needed with sensory sensitivities

Be proactive in offering support Ensure channels to access support are clear and open – Even if they do not want to engage initially – Disability Advisor, Student Counselling, Advice on accommodation, benefits Regular reviews Make sure they know where there is a quiet space they can access

Link up with local autism support services – Opportunities for the student to access support or social activities – Advice on autism-specific issues Autism training/information for staff – All staff should know where to look for information or training on supporting autistic students – e.g. info on staff website/portal

More information Autism and Uni project Autism and UniAutism and Uni – Good practice guides: Autism and Uni/Best Practice Autism and Uni/Best Practice Autism Network Scotland event on Transitions in FE/HE – slides available National Autistic Society website – The National Autistic Society/Education Professionals (for professionals) The National Autistic Society/Education Professionals – The National Autistic Society/Further and Higher Education (for students) The National Autistic Society/Further and Higher Education

More information Scottish Transitions Forum – Scottish Transitions Forum Scottish Transitions Forum Principles of Good Transitions 2 PoGT3 with Autism supplement due Autumn 2016 NHS Education for Scotland Autism Training Framework The Knowledge Network/Autism Spectrum Disorder Scottish Strategy for Autism The Scottish Strategy for Autism Working Group 2 on Transitions

Autism Network Scotland