Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

A thorough grounding in autism, for anyone who works with, cares for or lives with autistic people.

Level 2 Certificate
NCFE CACHE
Typically 12 to 16 weeks
Funding available

About this course

Understanding autism properly changes how you work with autistic people, and it changes the outcomes for them. This certificate takes you through diagnosis and prevalence, person-centred practice, communication and social interaction, sensory processing, positive behaviour support, and health and wellbeing.

It is a knowledge qualification with no placement requirement, so it suits parents and carers as well as people working in education, care or health.

Who this is for

Open to learners aged 16 and over. There are no formal entry requirements, though NCFE notes that learners may find a level 1 qualification helpful preparation.

What you will study

Six mandatory units, all of which must be achieved.

Introduction to autism

Diagnostic criteria, prevalence, historical perspectives and how understanding has changed. 36 hours.

Using a person-centred approach to support autistic individuals

Working from the individual's needs, preferences and strengths. 20 hours.

Communication and social interaction in autistic individuals

Communication differences and how to support interaction. 22 hours.

Sensory processing, perception and cognition

Sensory differences and creating environments that work. 20 hours.

Supporting positive behaviour in autistic individuals

Behaviour as communication, and proactive approaches. 24 hours.

Supporting autistic individuals to live healthy and fulfilled lives

Health, wellbeing, independence and community. 30 hours.

Where this can lead

Roles this can lead to

Support worker in autism services
Healthcare support worker
Teaching or learning support assistant
Social care assistant
Leisure and community support roles

Further study

Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce
Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support
Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare

How you are assessed

Internally assessed through a portfolio of evidence and quality assured by NCFE. No placement or work experience is required.

Support while you study

Every learner gets an individual learning plan, an initial assessment of English and maths, and a named tutor. You will have a college email address and access to Microsoft Teams. See our learning support and career support pages for what else is available.

Part of a pathway

This course sits within the following employment pathways. A pathway combines several qualifications into a route towards a particular kind of job.

Ready to get started?

Talk to us about whether this course is right for you, what funding you might be eligible for, and when the next start date is.

Apply now

01287 280800 | adultlearning@atomix.ac.uk