This Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism will give an understanding of autism and the principles of supporting individuals with autism. It enables you to study the person-centred approach and the influence that positive communication methods can have and will gain an understanding of how individuals with autism can be supported to live healthy and fulfilled lives.
It’s useful for learners who provide direct support and those working in sectors such as:
• healthcare
• social care
• leisure
• entertainment
• education and training
• nursing
Course Length: 16 weeks on average
Awarding Body: TQUK (E-certificates upon achievement)
Learning Method(s)
Online materials
Paper materials
Online assessment
Paper assessment
There is no prior qualification needed to access this course.
This course is part of our fully funded range of Level 2 courses so is free to the majority of learners – eligibility criteria applies.
Unit 1: Introduction to autism
This unit will provide a comprehensive introduction to autism, covering what is meant by ‘autism’, theories, exploring how autism develops and methods of working with those affected. Discover common misconceptions surrounding autism and conditions that develop alongside autism.
Unit 2: Using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism
This unit covers the method of utilising a person-centred approach in order to support individuals with autism, incorporating the unique preferences and needs of the individual. Examine the legislation and guidance on autism, as well as the support networks available to individuals diagnosed with the condition and their families.
Unit 3: Communication and social interaction in individuals with autism
This unit covers the delays and difficulties in speech, language, and social development often faced by individuals with autism. Also covered are methods and strategies that could be used when communicating with an individual with autism.
Unit 4: Sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism
Gain an in-depth understanding of sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism – including hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity. Also consider how to support the many unique sensory needs of individuals with autism.
Unit 5: Supporting positive behaviour in individuals with autism
This unit will provide an understanding of an individual’s behaviour in the context of autism and look at how to support positive behaviour and help individuals to develop coping strategies.
Unit 6: Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives
This unit covers how to provide effective support through transitions and life events, how to maintain the personal safety of others and how to access the wealth of services, facilities and employment opportunities open to those living with autism. Gain an understanding of what it is like for an individual to live with autism, including their experiences and their challenges.
This is a guide to the eligibility criteria if you are not sure about anything please get in touch with us.
Click to view and download the course information PDF
This course is fully free for eligible adults aged 19 and over living in London or Buckinghamshire, funded through the Adult Skills Fund. Funding is generally available to people who are unemployed or on a lower income and is subject to residency and eligibility checks when you enrol.
This is a nationally recognised qualification that develops knowledge and understanding of autism and how to support autistic individuals effectively. It covers autism, common misconceptions, communication and social interaction, sensory processing, behaviours associated with autism, co occurring conditions and the importance of person centred approaches to support.
This qualification is suitable for Support Workers, Care Workers, Healthcare Assistants, teachers, Teaching Assistants, Early Years Practitioners, parents, carers and anyone who supports autistic individuals. It is particularly valuable for people working in education, health and social care, community services, supported living and residential care.
The course can help learners recognise individual needs, improve communication, reduce barriers to participation and provide more informed and effective support. It promotes person centred approaches and an understanding that every autistic individual is unique, helping learners create more inclusive environments and support positive outcomes.
Most learners complete the qualification within 10 to 12 weeks through flexible blended learning, with online learning materials and dedicated tutor or assessor support. Assessment is completed through an online portfolio of evidence and knowledge based workbooks, with no formal examinations required.
