Commenting on World Autism Awareness Day (Sat 2 Apr), an
internationally recognised day to raise public awareness,
understanding and acceptance of autistic individuals, Natalie
Arnett, Senior Equalities Officer for school leaders’ union NAHT,
said:
“NAHT would like to take a moment to celebrate the achievements
of those individuals with ASD, many of whom are working and
leading in our schools.
“A growing number of children and young people are being
diagnosed as autistic, with Special Educational Needs data
suggesting that 1.8% of all pupils in England now have an autism
diagnosis. It is therefore vital that these children and young
people are effectively supported in order to achieve their full
potential.
“Schools already work incredibly hard to support the needs of all
children, and create inclusive cultures where all children and
young people feel valued and included.
“However, while the national strategy for autistic children,
young people and adults (released last year) and the SEND Review
(released earlier this week), contain some helpful proposals to
improve the system for individuals with ASD, the bottom line is
that we need to make sure each part of the sector has the
resources, both now and in the longer-term, to meet the needs of
children and young people with SEND, and ensure they are able to
access the specialists they need at the earliest possible
opportunity. That is ultimately what will make the biggest
difference, and be the true change for autistic children and
young people that the strategies aim for.”
