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In a momentous development poised to reshape the UK educational landscape, Duncan Baker MP is set to present the Autism (Early Identification) 10 Minute Rule Bill to the House of Commons on Tuesday, 30th January at 12:30 pm. This pivotal bill seeks to institute mandatory training for all teachers, empowering them to identify the early signs of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions during the crucial early stages of a student’s educational journey.
The Significance of Early Identification
At the heart of this groundbreaking bill lies a commitment to revolutionise how we approach autism in the educational sphere. By making it mandatory for teachers to undergo specialised training, the emphasis is squarely on early identification – a key factor in ensuring that pupils with autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions receive the best support they need right from the earliest outset of their academic endeavours.
A Collaborative Endeavor
As we eagerly anticipate this historic moment, it’s worth acknowledging the collaborative efforts that have brought us here. *FullSpektrum®*, in collaboration with *Keystone Consulting Ltd*, *Maria Field*, and *Ambitious about Autism*, is honoured to play a role in this initiative. Together, we are championing a cause that goes beyond a bill – it’s a commitment to reshaping the curriculum experience for neurodivergent children and young people.
Equipping Educators for Impact
The crux of the matter lies in providing teachers with the tools and knowledge necessary to identify signs of autism in their students early on. This proactive approach holds the potential to transform outcomes for these young learners, ensuring that they receive tailored support and interventions right from the start.
A Plea to Government Support
As the bill steps into the limelight, the call is directed toward the Department for Education (DfE) to lend its unequivocal support. Early SEND identification and support is not merely a checkbox in a legislative agenda; it’s a fundamental shift toward neuroinclusive educational environments. By endorsing this bill, we send a powerful message that every SEND pupil, regardless of their condition, deserves an education that acknowledges and supports their unique needs.
A Vision for Neuroinclusive Education
The journey ahead involves not just the passage of a bill but a commitment to fostering understanding, embracing diversity, and unlocking the immense potential that lies within each unique mind. Together, let’s champion the cause of early identification, making strides toward a more inclusive and supportive educational landscape.
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Duncan Baker MP’s Bill: A Catalyst for Change
Duncan Baker MP, Member of Parliament for North Norfolk, is set to launch a major new Parliamentary Bill to see more support come forward for autistic children. The Autism (Early Identification) Bill aims to make autism modules a mandatory part of initial teacher training, helping to identify and assess signs of the condition in children earlier.
The Urgent Need for Early Identification
As it stands, 39% of primary school teachers have just more than half a day’s training in autism. For secondary school, this drops to just 14% as while SENCOs are placed in schools, it is often a postcode lottery as to whether a child receives the proper support.
Duncan Baker MP wants to see these issues addressed as soon as possible. The Government is keen to improve provision for SEND, bringing out the SEND and Alternative Provision Improvement Plan last March, but this Bill will go further.
A Collaborative Approach
Supported by FullSpektrum, Ambitious about Autism, and Keystone Consulting, Duncan Baker MP highlights the collaborative nature of the Bill. Early identification is the first step in the path to change for these children, and this Bill will ensure this happens.
Support from André Skepple, Founder of FullSpektrum
“This bill is a landmark breakthrough for autistic children in the UK who’ve struggled to get the right education provision. It’s a rallying call for change, offering crucial support. Early identification and intervention are the linchpin for their transformation, and I’m passionately backing this bill for the betterment of these children.”
Fiona Cuthbertson, Managing Director of Keystone Consulting
“This Bill provides an amazing opportunity for autistic children who have struggled to get the education they deserve in the past. Early identification is the first step in the path to change for these children, and this Bill will ensure this happens.”
Jolanta Lasota, Ambitious about Autism Chief Executive
“School is too often a difficult and hostile place for autistic children and young people, and this can have a heavy impact on their mental health, their ability to learn, and their prospects in future life. It is vital that their needs are identified early so that support can be put in place, and that all education staff have autism training so that autistic children and young people meet teachers who understand them and can support them to achieve.”
By André Skepple, Founder & CEO of FullSpektrum®
Download The Official Press Release Here.
