Autism Toolbox launches, supporting teachers in Scotland
L-R: Alan Somerville, CEO, Scottish Autism; Owen McCullach (14); Zoe Day (16); Dr Alasdair Allan, Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages; Callum Donaldson (14); Paul Dunn, Head Teacher, Grangemouth High School; Shannan Watmore (12)
The updated resource has been developed online by the Scottish Government and Scottish Autism in response to teacher feedback that a more accessible system would work better.
As recent studies suggest that around one in 100 UK pupils will be somewhere on the autism spectrum all schools should be prepared to offer additional support in class.
Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages Alasdair Allan said:
“The support a pupil with autism needs is likely to change as they get older and, while there may be common features in the teaching approach, this guidance recognises that every child with autism is unique.
“The toolbox will help managers and teachers review their practice as well as providing advice on building relationships with parents and carers to create an inclusive environment that allows all pupils to learn and thrive.
“Teachers are professionals who have been supporting pupils with autism and their families for generations. Drawing on the expertise of groups such as Scottish Autism we are helping teachers build their skills and provide the practical support that the profession and families have asked for.”
The impact of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can range from subtle problems understanding social interaction to more significant difficulties.
The Pupil Census in 2013 showed that there were 9,946 pupils with ASD, 1.5 per cent of the school population.
Alan Somerville, CEO Scottish Autism said:
“New content for the Autism Toolbox has been developed with direct input from teachers, families and other professionals within the education community to ensure that it responds to gaps in knowledge and also highlights examples of excellent practice for others to learn from.
“We hope that the wealth of practical advice and useful resources contained within the Toolbox website enables teachers to develop their own understanding of autism and gives them the confidence to apply that knowledge within their own school setting. Building skills and capacity like this can only have positive and lasting benefits for pupils with autism in mainstream schools in Scotland.”
David Banks, PT Secondary Outreach Service, West Lothian said:
"When delivering training I have to inform people that there is no magic wand, but I remind them that the Autism Toolbox provides an excellent book of spells."
The new Autism Toolbox is available at www.autismtoolbox.co.uk.
