The Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism is aimed at support staff working with people on the autism spectrum in a voluntary or paid capacity, and for family members/carers who want to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of autism to support progression to employment, career development and/or on to further qualifications. The course will give you the opportunity to learn and share best practice from across the sector.

Course Overview

• 20-week online programme
• 3 hours per week teaching via Teams (Thursday evenings 5pm to 8pm)
• An additional 4 hours a week independent study to fit around home and work commitments.
• Each week you will have access to our Autism Café - an informal virtual space to ask questions, advice and guidance on autism specific to your practice/life environment.

The course is delivered by specialist practitioners from Weston College’s nationally recognised Specialist Support Provision, all of whom are highly trained and experienced in delivering high quality autism support and promoting an inclusive, person-centred ethical approach.

The course consists of 5 units:

• Understand the diagnosis and management of autism
• Understand best practice in the context of autism
• Legislation, guidance, information and support relevant to autism
• Autism and behaviour

• Living with autism in society

  Whilst this course provides the perfect progression from our current L2 in Understanding Autism it is accessible as direct entry without prior autism qualifications.

Entry Requirements

Level 2 or equivalent in maths and English.

Lara demonstrated exceptional dedication in her two-year T Level course, gaining international experience supporting disadvantaged children and excelling in local placements.She contributed to the Early Years department through Stay and Plays, earning a distinction from the NCFE moderator. Now, she continues her passion for early education at our University Centre Weston.

This apprenticeship will help you develop the skills you’ll need to assist and support teachers and children in the classroom, including supporting children with special educational needs and emotional vulnerabilities. You’ll be expected to act as a role model to the children, take an active part in lesson planning, and act with kindness and care, to improve pupil progress and development.

If you have a passion for nurturing children's development, fostering their curiosity, and providing a supportive environment for their early educational journey, then an Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career.

Course Overview

The role of an early years practitioner is both rewarding and essential in shaping the future of our youngest learners.

If you aspire to work with children, this apprenticeship offers an invaluable opportunity to turn your passion into a fulfilling career. Throughout this apprenticeship, you will acquire the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to become a skilled and compassionate early years educator.