Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee
Patricia Hewitt submission of 20 June 2021
PE1870/A - Ensure teachers of autistic pupils are appropriately qualified
I believe that it’s vital that all teachers are trained in Autism including Pathological Demand Avoidance. With the presumption to mainstream schools, which l totally disagree with, many children with additional support needs find it distressing due to their needs not being met. This means that they can’t cope and end up school refusing. It’s not that they won’t participate in school, it is that they can’t.
I know of children who have been left traumatised by mainstreaming and the appalling lack of understanding of Autism. I believe that the Learning Support Teachers and Senior Management Team working with them didn’t even understand the basics of Autism and Education Laws. Their family felt ignored and as if they were up against people who would say “We have 20 years experience”. I believe that parents should be listened to and have their views respected.
I know of a child who was never referred and experienced exclusions of 5 months. Another also experienced exclusions alongside restraint and seclusion. Getting It Right for Every Child is not working. Teachers can refuse Autism spectrum disorder training and I believe that this loophole needs closing.