What is the course about?
Please note: this course is not available to learners in many areas of England with devolved adult skills funding. Please view the Level 2 Distance Learning page for details on eligibility
This course has a duration of 20 weeks and aims to develop learners understanding of autism and the principles of supporting individuals with autism - covering the person-centred approach and influence of positive communication methods, how to support positive behaviour, and how individuals with autism can be supported to live healthy and fulfilled lives.
In order to undertake this course you must have English at Level 1. You will need to know how to use an electrical device such as a computer, laptop or tablet due to the delivery of the course being all online.
To be awarded the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, learners are required to successfully complete 6 mandatory units:
•Introduction to autism
•Using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism
•Communication and social interaction in individuals with autism
•Sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism
•Supporting positive behaviour in individuals with autism
•Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives
You will be provided with online learning materials which covers all aspects of your course. You will be required to complete assessments for each of the units within the course and submit these by the deadline dates provided at induction. You will be allocated an assessor at the start of your course and they will support you to ensure you have a successful outcome. IT skills will be developed throughout your course and basic English skills will be assessed and discussed on an ongoing basis.
The course is free if you meet the eligibility criteria. You must be a UK resident or have lived in the UK for 3 years or more and be aged 19 or older on 31 August 2025. You will need internet access so that you can respond to email and a digital device that will enable you to type your answers into a web-based platform.
On successful completion of this course you will gain a Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism. This will give you the breadth and depth of study and key knowledge in order to be able 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.
If you are interested in progressing to further study at the next level of vocational learning, the following qualifications are available :
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 in Health and Social Care (Adults) for England
Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England)
Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism
