Training

We offer training to professional practitioners, mainstream services, schools and community groups to develop understanding of autism across Bedfordshire and beyond. We are the only voluntary organisation in Bedfordshire specialised in supporting autistic people and we are proud of our reputation for being an excellent provider of quality autism support.

National figures indicate that autism affects at least 1 person in every 100. The Autism Act 2009 and statutory guidance state that local authorities and the NHS should provide autism training for staff. This includes frontline staff who come into contact with autistic individuals, as well as specialist training for key personnel such as staff working in statutory services, staff involved in the assessment of autistic adults and doctors.

The specialist training we provide is unique as it not only improves understanding, but with the involvement of autistic guest speakers where practicable, enables the audience to appreciate how autism affects individuals on a personal level.

Our diverse range of training opportunities are designed to enhance understanding and best practice when working with autistic individuals in a range of settings. Our course prices include course folders with handouts and certificates of attendance (resources subject to Covid friendly practices).

In addition, we can design bespoke training programmes to suit your needs.

To find out more or to book a course then contact our training department: training@autismbeds.org

Autism Bedfordshire is immensely proud of its range of quality specialist training packages, which have to date reached nearly 4,000 delegates throughout Bedfordshire and beyond.
In addition to the courses specified here on our website and our rolling programme of pay per place training events we are also able to tailor our courses to suit the specific needs of your organisation. Some of our bespoke training has included, but is not limited to:

We are also willing to explore new topics upon request – we love a challenge!

General Consultancy

Autism Bedfordshire is a leading provider of support services to autistic children and adults and as such we have developed a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be commissioned for numerous autism related projects, in addition to our respected training courses and our education consultancy service. For example, we can offer:

For organisations
An environmental assessment of your organisation for autism friendliness and accessibility for autistic individuals

For individuals/families
Post diagnostic support upon receiving an autism diagnosis, at any age/stage of life

When you purchase training from Autism Bedfordshire, you are guaranteed the very best. You will also have the satisfaction of knowing that any surplus revenue generated from our training provision will be ploughed directly back into services for autistic individuals.

If you would like to find out more about bespoke training for your organisation, or discuss any of your training needs, please contact us on 01234 214871 or email training@autismbeds.org

This service can be accessed by professionals or parents who would like assistance in identifying, understanding and supporting young people who may face barriers to their learning and development.

Our experience: Our Autism Trainer, Mandy, is a qualified autism advisory teacher with over ten years of experience. Mandy has a Postgraduate Certificate in Asperger Syndrome and further associated training including Carol Gray’s Social Stories, 3 & 5 Day TEACCH, 2 Day PECS, 2 Day SCERTS and 1 Day Protective Behaviours. Mandy is able to support other professionals in both providing and examining the evidence for an autism spectrum diagnosis, although only a medical professional can offer a diagnosis.

What this service can offer:

• Individual observations in the setting or at home
• Sensory environmental audit
• Holistic reports containing clear recommendations
• A focus on all areas including social communication and interaction, flexibility of thought, behaviours, the impact of sensory processing differences and environmental factors
• Advice about possible ways forward for the young person, suggested interventions and targets
• Useful evidence either pre or post diagnosis when seeking statutory support (please consult with your Local Authority to confirm they will recognise such evidence)
• Bespoke ‘Autism n the Classroom’ training for SENCOs, teachers and support staff*

Cost/fees:

Autism Bedfordshire will always agree service fees before going ahead with any work.  We will offer an initial (one-off) up to 30 minute telephone consultation to any new client, free of charge, with no  further obligation.

Our consultancy fee is £50/hour. There is an additional cost of 40p/mile added for the round trip between your location and ours (MK41 0UD).

Example: Observation of a child (1–2 hours), written report with recommendations based on this observation and other information collated such as medical/school reports (3-4 hours). Typically this would total 5-6 hours’ work and therefore cost £250-£300, plus travel. Please note that there might be additional costs for resources – such as social stories or visual prompts, where agreed in advance – and travel, depending on location. If required to attend a follow up meeting with staff and parents/carers, this would add a further hours’ fee to the total.

* Autism in the Classroom training is delivered as part of our professional training programme therefore the cost of this varies depending on the number of delegates.

Telephone 01234 214871 or email: training@autismbeds.org