Certificate in Understanding Autism

Course description

The Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism comprises six mandatory units that are presented in three concise module workbooks:MODULE AUnit 01: Introduction to autismUnit 02: Using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autismMODULE BUnit 03: Communication and social interaction in individuals with autismUnit 04: Sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autismMODULE CUnit 05: Supporting positive behaviour in individuals with autismUnit 06: Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives

There are around 700,000 people on the autism spectrum in the UK ; thats more than 1 in 100. According to the National Autistic Society, if you include their families, autism is a part of daily life for 2.8 million people. In fact, in the last thirty years the number of people diagnosed with autism has increased 25 fold. This is because of a general increased awareness of autism, improved diagnosis and the inclusion of a wider range of forms of autism, such as Asperger syndrome.

This increased awareness has led to many improvements. There are now many fantastic examples of well-informed, inclusive and empowering environments that enable individuals with autism to thrive. However, individuals with autism and their families continue to face many problems and challenges, and these need to be tackled.

This course aims to develop the learners understanding of autism and how they can support individuals with autism in a range of different contexts, whether they work in health, social care or childrens or young peoples settings. The course will also help learners to understand the characteristics of the different forms of autism, and appreciate the importance of seeing each person with autism as a unique individual with a unique set of needs, strengths and abilities.

Learning outcome

Learners will be able to further their own continuous professional development, which may improve their career prospects, or allow them to progress on to further qualifications such as courses in health and social care or related subjects.