Course Overview

The duration of this course is 11-13 weeks.

This qualification aims to increase your knowledge of autism, the diagnostic process and legislation.

As part of this course you will study six mandatory untis:

UNIT 1 – Understanding mental health

• Section 1 Understand what is meant by ‘autism’
• Section 2 Know theories that relate to autism
• Section 3 Know how autism is diagnosed
• Section 4 Understand the characteristics that may be present in individuals with autism
• Section 5 Know about conditions that commonly co-occur with autism
• Section 6 Understand common misconceptions surrounding autism

UNIT 2 – Using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism

• Section 1 Know how legislation and guidance underpins support for individuals with autism
• Section 2 Understand how to support individuals with autism using a person-centred approach

UNIT 3 – Communication and social interaction in individuals with autism

• Section 1 Understand speech, language and communication in individuals with autism
• Section 2 Understand how social interaction may differ in individuals with autism
• Section 3 Know strategies that are used to support communication and social interaction for individuals with autism

UNIT 4 – Sensory processing, perception and cognitition in individuals with autism

• Section 1 Understand how individuals with autism process sensory information
• Section 2 Know how to recognise and support sensory needs
• Section 3 Understand the cognitive differences individuals with autism may have in processing information

UNIT 5 – Supporting positive behaviour individuals with autism

• Section 1 Understand behaviour within the context of autism
• Section 2 Know how to support positive behaviour
• Section 3 Understand how to support individuals to develop coping strategies

UNIT 6 – Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives

• Section 1 Understand the experience of living with autism
• Section 2 Know how to support individuals to maintain their personal safety
• Section 3 Understand the purpose of positive risk taking
• Section 4 Know how to support individuals with transitions and life events
• Section 5 Know how to support individuals to access services and facilities
• Section 6 Know how to support individuals with employment

Assessment Methods

Assessments are due at the end of each unit. Your tutor will assess your work and build up your portfolio of evidence of learning. A certificate will be awarded on satisfactory submission of evidence of learning for the units studied.