What does this qualification cover?

This qualification aims to develop learners’ understanding of autism and the principles of supporting autistic individuals - covering the person-centred approach and influence of positive communication methods, how to support positive behaviour, and how autistic individuals can be supported to live healthy and fulfilled lives.

Who is it suitable for?

This qualification is designed for learners who wish to develop an understanding of autism and how to support autistic individuals.

It is useful for learners who provide direct support and those working in sectors such as:

• healthcare
• social care
• leisure
• education
• early years
• nursing
• voluntary

This qualification is suitable for learners aged 16 and above.

What are the entry requirements?

There are no specific recommended prior learning requirements for this qualification. However, learners may find it helpful if they’ve already achieved a Level 1 qualification.

How is this qualification structured?

To be awarded the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, learners are required to successfully complete 6 mandatory units:

• Unit 01 Introduction to autism
• Unit 02 Using a person-centred approach to support autistic individuals
• Unit 03 Communication and social interaction in autistic individuals
• Unit 04 Sensory processing, perception and cognition in autistic individuals
• Unit 05 Supporting positive behaviour in autistic individuals
• Unit 06 Supporting autistic individuals to live healthy and fulfilled lives

How is it assessed?

To achieve the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, learners must successfully demonstrate their achievement of all learning outcomes and assessment criteria of the units as detailed in the qualification specification. Grades are not awarded.

The Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism is internally assessed.

What related qualifications can you progress to?

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to:

• Level 3 Diploma for the Children's Workforce (Early Years Educator)
• Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England)
• Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support
• Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism

Which type of job roles can you apply for on completion?

The objective of this qualification is to help learners to progress within employment in a variety of sectors, and in a number of job roles where an understanding of autism and knowledge of how to support autistic individuals is required.

Funding for our qualifications

Find out more about funding for this and other qualifications on our funding page.