World autism awareness day – supporting neurodiversity within SEN
2 April was World Autism Awareness Day – a chance to celebrate the strengths and differences of those with autism. At Senploy, we wanted to take the opportunity to explore the vital role that SEN plays within the neurodiverse community and share some of the opportunities available within the industry right now.
According to the National Autistic Society, there are 700,000 autistic people within the UK and government data from January 2022 revealed that Autistic Spectrum Disorder was the most common type of special educational need, with 103,400 (31.3%) pupils with an Education, Health and Care plan (EHC) having this recorded as their primary need.
How do SEN specialists support autistic learners?
SEN specialists play a vital role in supporting the education of learners on the autistic spectrum. Autism impacts an individual’s perception of the world, communicating and interacting with others. In an educational setting, autistic students are likely to show differences in three areas:
· Social understanding and communication
· Ability to cope with change, information processing and understanding
· Sensory processing, such as heightened sensitivity to sound, touch or smell.
The term ‘spectrum’ means these characteristics vary in each individual. Therefore, while those in SEN employment require a thorough understanding of all the different typical autistic behaviours, what’s vital is that they’re tuned into how autism impacts the specific learner they’re supporting – and can adapt their teaching techniques to suit.
By recognising specific difficulties and working with learners’ families, teachers and wider support networks, such as doctors and therapists, SEN teachers can develop educational strategies that are tailored to individual needs.
This approach enables them to engage with and develop an autistic child's bespoke learning journey. For example, learners with autism often have a very good eye for detail, which can see them excel in subjects such as mathematics, science, design and technology. However, communication difficulties or processing delays could mean that they may also find it difficult to get the gist of a topic or see the bigger picture in subjects such as English or history. Therefore, getting to know each student's likes and dislikes ensures that lessons are not only planned to meet their needs but also create a comfortable and engaging learning environment.
There are a range of different strategies that can improve the learning experience of autistic students. Key skills include being observant for triggers of anxiety, signs of depression or bullying by peers, being patient and able to communicate clearly, as well as a willingness to regularly praise and commend students for their learning efforts.
If you feel you have these skills or would be keen to develop them and support autistic students with a career in SEN, we have hundreds of current part-time and full-time opportunities available . Roles are varied and range from teaching assistant, support workers and youth workers to teachers and even SEN nannies.
You can apply directly for any of the positions through our website or for more information, get in touch.