Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Conditions (RQF)

This qualification is suitable for:

• Teachers, teaching assistants and learning support assistants
• Further education and college professionals
• Early years practitioners and nursery staff
• SENCOs, inclusion leads and pastoral staff
• School, academy and college support teams
• Health and social care practitioners
• Support workers, residential care staff and personal assistants
• Parents, carers and family members
• Anyone wishing to develop their understanding of autism and inclusive practice

No previous knowledge of autism is required, making this an excellent introductory qualification for anyone supporting autistic children, young people or adults in educational, care or community settings.

The qualification is made up of three comprehensive units that provide learners with the knowledge and understanding needed to effectively support autistic children, young people and adults in educational, care and community settings.

Unit 1: Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Conditions

This unit provides a comprehensive introduction to autistic spectrum conditions, helping learners develop a greater understanding of autism and the diverse ways it can affect individuals. Your staff will explore the characteristics, signs and behaviours associated with autism, related diagnoses, and the prevalence of autism within the UK. The unit examines the diagnostic process, including the tools, guidelines, benefits and challenges associated with receiving a diagnosis, as well as the reasons some individuals may be reluctant to seek one. Learners will also gain an understanding of the legislation, guidance and support available to autistic individuals and their families.

In addition, the unit explores how autism can influence communication, relationships, routines, daily living and overall wellbeing, including the positive aspects of living with autism. By the end of the unit, learners will have developed the knowledge needed to recognise the individuality of autistic people and support them in a more informed, inclusive and person-centred way.

Unit 2: Introduction to Behaviour Management and Support for Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Conditions

This unit focuses on developing the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective, person-centred support for autistic individuals across a range of settings. Learners will explore the importance of recognising each person as an individual, involving them in decisions about their care, support and education, and promoting their rights, independence and wellbeing. The unit examines behaviours that may challenge, the factors that can influence behaviour, and positive strategies that can be used to provide appropriate support.

Learners will also gain an understanding of advocacy, co-production and the role of support networks in helping autistic individuals and their carers. In addition, the unit covers the impact of life transitions, approaches to managing change, safeguarding, risk assessment and promoting personal safety.

Finally, learners will explore how to support autistic individuals to access services, opportunities and community resources, including overcoming barriers and making reasonable adjustments to ensure inclusion and participation. By the end of the unit, learners will have developed a practical understanding of how to support autistic individuals in ways that promote positive outcomes, independence, dignity and quality of life.

Unit 3: Understanding the Principles of Communication and Interaction with Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Conditions

This unit explores the vital role that communication, interaction and sensory processing play in the lives of autistic individuals. Learners will develop an understanding of how speech and language are used to communicate, how communication differences may affect autistic people, and the strategies that can be used to support effective communication and positive social interactions. The unit examines a range of communication methods and highlights the importance of tailoring approaches to meet individual needs, promoting participation, inclusion and meaningful relationships.

Learners will also explore the impact of unmet communication needs and the role of professionals, educators and carers in supporting communication development. In addition, the unit provides insight into sensory processing, including how autistic individuals may experience and respond to sensory information differently, and the relationship between sensory processing, body awareness and mobility. Practical techniques for managing sensory stimulation and supporting task completion are explored, enabling learners to develop strategies that can be applied in educational, care and community settings. By the end of the unit, learners will have gained valuable knowledge and practical approaches to support communication, engagement and successful outcomes for autistic individuals.

This qualification provides valuable CPD for professionals working in early years settings, schools, colleges, further education, health and social care, helping to develop both knowledge and practical approaches that can be applied immediately to support autistic learners and individuals more effectively.

Your staff members will have 3 months from enrolment to complete the qualification, although they may complete earlier.

To achieve the Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Conditions (RQF), they will complete a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates their knowledge and understanding across all three units. Throughout the programme, they will receive support and guidance from an experienced tutor to help them successfully meet the assessment criteria.

Unit 1: Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Conditions
Assessment Method: Assignment
Your staff member will complete a written assignment that covers all required assessment criteria for this unit. Assignments can be submitted in stages, allowing them to receive ongoing support and constructive feedback from their tutor throughout the learning process.

Unit 2: Introduction to Behaviour Management and Support for Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Conditions
Assessment Method: Assignment
They will complete a written assignment covering the assessment criteria for this unit. As with Unit 1, work can be submitted at intervals, enabling them to benefit from regular tutor feedback and support to progress them through the qualification.

Unit 3: Understanding the Principles of Communication and Interaction with Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Conditions
Assessment Method: Professional Discussion
Your staff member will take part in a planned professional discussion with their tutor. This provides an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of behaviour management, positive behaviour support strategies, and approaches to supporting autistic individuals in a range of settings. Their tutor will guide the discussion and ensure all assessment criteria are covered.

Learner Support
Throughout their studies, your staff member will have access to:

• Expert tutor guidance and support
• Detailed learning materials and assessment guidance
• Individual feedback on submitted work
• Flexible submission opportunities
• Assessment support to help achieve the qualification

This flexible approach allows learners to study at their own pace while developing the knowledge and practical understanding needed to support autistic children, young people and adults effectively in educational, care and community settings.

Your member of staff will be allocated a named assessor who will provide unlimited online support throughout the qualification. They will have a face-to-face online induction with their assessor to plan first steps and answer any questions they may have. Further tutorials can be arranged with their assessor, either face to face, online or via telephone, as required.

The price includes:

• Expert advice and support from a highly experienced trainer
• Course materials
• Unlimited online support via Teams
• Registration and certification

Organisations delivering adult social care services in England may be eligible for government funding to support staff training. Through the Learning and Development Support Scheme (LDSS), employers can claim funding to cover the cost of upskilling their workforce, including the Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Condition.