UNDERSTANDING AUTISM - LEVEL 2 CERTIFICATE (RQF) COURSE

The course consists of the following units:

Unit 1 - Introduction to autism (H/507/2764)

This unit provides learners with an introduction to autism, covering what is meant by ‘autism’, theories and diagnosis. Learners will also look at common misconceptions associated with autism and conditions that can co-occur with autism.

Learning Outcomes: Understand what is meant by ‘autism’; Know theories that relate to autism; Know how autism is diagnosed; Understand the characteristics that may be present in individuals with autism; Know about conditions that commonly co-occur with autism; and Understand common misconceptions surrounding autism.

Unit 2 - Using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism (K/507/2765)

This unit covers using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism, incorporating the preferences and needs of the individual. Learners will also look at legislation and guidance, and the support networks available to individuals and their families.

Learning Outcomes: Know how legislation and guidance underpins support for individuals with autism; and Understand how to support individuals with autism using a person-centred approach.

Unit 3 - Communication and social interaction in individuals with autism (M/507/2766)

This unit covers the potential delays and difficulties in speech, language, and social development sometimes faced by individuals with autism. It also covers methods and strategies that could be used when communicating with an individual with autism.

Learning Outcomes: Understand speech, language and communication in individuals with autism; Understand how social interaction may differ in individuals with autism; and Know strategies that are used to support communication and social interaction for individuals with autism.

Unit 4 - Sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism (T/507/2767)

In this unit learners will gain an understanding of sensory processing, perception, and cognition in individuals with autism - including looking at hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity. Learners will also consider how to the support the sensory needs of individuals with autism.

Learning Outcomes: Understand how individuals with autism process sensory information; Know how to recognise and support sensory needs; and Understand the cognitive differences individuals with autism may have in processing information.

Unit 5 - Supporting positive behaviour in individuals with autism (A/507/2768)

Through this unit learners will understand individuals’ behaviours in the context of autism. They’ll also look at how to support positive behaviour and help individuals to develop coping strategies.

Learning Outcomes: Understand behaviour within the context of autism; Know how to support positive behaviour; and Understand how to support individuals to develop coping strategies.

Unit 6 - Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives (F/507/2769)

This unit covers how to support individuals through transitions and life events, how to maintain their personal safety, and how to access services, facilities and employment opportunities. Learners will also gain an understanding of what it’s like for an individual to live with autism.

Learning Outcomes: Understand the experience of living with autism; Know how to support individuals to maintain their personal safety; Understand the purpose of positive risk-taking; Know how to support individuals with transitions and life events; Know how to support individuals to access services and facilities; and Know how to support individuals with employment.