I took on the new role of ASC Lead in June 2017 after successfully completing a year-long course called -  ‘Good Autism Practice of the AET schools programme’, which was run by Freemantles.  My role is to work closely with the school’s SENCO to enhance the skills and knowledge of all key staff in relation to autism so that they grow in confidence and competence. As the ASC Lead I am involved in all aspects of support to those pupils with autism. This involves aspects of advocacy, assessment, strategic planning, staff/parent liaison and support.  Other key responsibilities within the role are:

• To act as an advocate for the pupils with autism to communicate their needs.
• Support families, including sign posting to external support groups and resources 
• Support staff through observations of pupils and providing advice and resources to support individual children.  
• Understand and be able to respond to how autism may act as a barrier in relationships with adults and pupils.
• Understand and be able to respond to the ways in which autism may present a barrier to aspects of learning.
• Consistently employ knowledge of the individual pupil in decision-making regarding advice on effective strategies.
• Support a systemic approach to the inclusion of pupils with autism.
• Access support from outside agencies, where necessary and to keep up to date with current knowledge.