The number of children with autism missing from classrooms across England is rising at an alarming rate. New evidence from Ambitious about Autism shows that exclusions of children with autism have increased by 60 per cent over the past five years - rising to nearly 4,500 pupils being excluded in one year.  

There are many factors behind this worrying rise, including problems with how exclusions law is understood and enforced in the education system, and with how financial and attainment pressures are affecting schools’ exclusions practice. This is something the government’s independent school exclusions review must examine closely.  

But there are also practical steps that schools can take to better support pupils with autism in the classroom. Not only can these help to reduce exclusions, they will also benefit all pupils, too.  

1. Training and leadership  

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability. Children with autism experience the world around them differently to other children. This means that bright lights, loud noises or changes to routine can have a much bigger impact on the behaviour of a child with autism than it would for other pupils.  

For teachers to truly understand autism, learning must begin in initial teacher training, and there must be a willingness within a school’s leadership team to continue professional development around autism.

A Sendco should always be part of this leadership team, and they should drive a positive approach to supporting children with autism, making sure that this is filtered down from the top. 

2. Recognising difference 

Every child with autism is different and has different needs, so you will need to treat each one as an individual and find out what they need.

It sounds simple, but the best way to understand what causes certain behaviour is to ask the pupil themselves, or involve their parents. Working together right from the start is the best way to implement successful adjustments that will enable the pupil to flourish.

3. Managing change  

Disruption to routine can have a much bigger impact on children with autism than other pupils, so explaining changes before they happen is crucial. Support staff can play a key role in helping children to manage this, so it’s vital they are informed well in advance about any changes to lessons, teaching staff or even seating arrangements.

Introducing clear timetables for the day, even in primary school, will help children with autism to predict what’s happening next and this will reduce anxiety about changes to their routine.

4. Learning environment  

Children with autism can struggle to process everyday sensory information. If this gets too much, it can result in withdrawal or challenging behaviour. 

It’s crucial that learning plans are individualised and children with autism are given more time to process tasks - including homework. Clear instructions and simple language also aid understanding and reduce anxiety. Providing a “time-out” room and looking at ways to reduce white noise in classrooms are also helpful.

5. Providing extra structure  

Children with autism often find unstructured times of the day - such as lunch and breaks - very stressful as they don’t know what is expected of them. Providing extra support during these periods - such as choice boards or structured games - can really help to bring continuity to their day, and ensure they are ready to learn when they return to the classroom. 

Maria Chambers is director of education at Ambitious about Autism