Your course to make change

Free Online Course:
Understanding Autism - Level 2 Certificate

Help make the world a little more autism friendly

Millions are unfamiliar with what life looks like for people and children with ASD. Do your bit to make change in the lives of 700,000 autistic people by understanding autism.

Limited Spaces

UK Government funded online course. Qualification accredited by NCFE CACHE

Free Online Course

Fully-funded by HM Government

100% Online

Learn from your home or office

Expert Support

Expert tutor support available

6 Week Course

4-5 hours of weekly study

Make change in the challenges autistic people face

“What is Autism?” Is still one of the highest searched questions on Google, this needs to change.

We all have a part to play in learning more about what it is like to be autistic so we can help contribute to a society that works better for Autistic people.

By spreading awareness and understanding, together we can make a difference. A difference in the likes of employment prospects, bullying incidents at schools and how society sees autism.

It is estimated that around 700,000 people in the UK have a diagnosis of autism. One in 100 children in the UK have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.

British Medical Association

Is it really free?

Simple answer – if you meet the eligibility criteria below, then, yes! No fee, no card details and no trial periods…

We connect you with training providers that use the UK Government’s Adult Education Budget to fund the free online courses.

Eligibility Criteria

*EEA nationals will need to have obtained either pre settlement or settled status and provide evidence of this.

Receive an accredited NCFE CACHE or TQUK certificate

The certificate is a record of achievement and your reward for completing a nationally recognised qualification.

NCFE CACHE and TQUK are both fully-approved as awarding organisations by Ofqual
Demonstrate to employers that you have gained a recognised and regulated qualification in your chosen subject
Last year alone, over a quarter of a million learners chose to learn via NCFE CACHE
Build the foundations to improve your job prospects

Increase the love and support from the community for individuals with autism spectrum disorder

The free online course is split into manageable units

Successfully complete all units to be awarded the level 2 Certificate

Introduction to autism

This unit provides learners with an introduction to autism, covering what is meant by ‘autism’, theories, and diagnosis.

Learners will also look at common misconceptions associated with autism and conditions that can co-occur with autism.

Person-centred approach to support

This unit covers using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism, incorporating the preferences and needs of the individual.

Learners will also look at legislation and guidance, and the support networks
available to individuals and their families.

Communication and interaction

This unit covers the potential delays and difficulties in speech, language, and social development sometimes faced by individuals with autism.

It also covers methods and strategies that could be used when communicating with an individual with autism.

Sensory processing and perception

In this unit, learners will gain an understanding of sensory processing, perception, and cognition in individuals with autism – including looking at hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity.

Learners will also consider how to support the sensory needs of individuals with autism.

Supporting positive behaviour

Through this unit you will understand individuals’ behaviours in the context of autism.

You’ll also look at how to support positive behaviour and help individuals to develop coping strategies.

Healthy and fulfilled lives

This unit covers how to support individuals through transitions and life events, how to maintain their personal safety, and how to access services, facilities and employment opportunities.

Learners will also gain an understanding of what it’s like for an individual to live with autism.

Free course sample

Download the sample workbook and get a taste of the free course content

Happy Learners in 2020

Join thousands of happy learners

Complete the short form below to register your interest in Understanding Autism

Interested in this course as an organisation, business representative or charity?

Register interest and a course advisor will be in touch to discuss your organisation’s needs or learn more about Free Courses in England’s opportunities for organisations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can’t find the answer to your question?

Call us on 0800 001 5910, jump on live chat or email us

Is the course definitely free?

If you meet the eligibility criteria then YES!

We connect you with learning providers that use government funding, in the form of the Education & Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and the Adult Educational Budget (AEB).

When can I start the free online course?

We hope to get you started within 24 hours of completing the full enrolment process but this can vary depending on the learning provider.

How long will the free online course take?

The courses are designed to allow learners to fit their learning around their employment obligations and can be completed in a number of weeks or months, depending on the level. Our shorter courses are often completed within 3 weeks, whilst our longer lasting courses can take up to 3 months.

Is it all online?

Yes! All of our free courses are 100% online.

Is the qualification recognised by employers?

All of our courses are accredited by UK government-recognised awarding bodies. These include NCFE CACHE and TQUK, with whom we work closely to ensure our existing courses, and all new ones, meet approved standards of excellence and are certified as such. NCFE CACHE and TQUK are national awarding organisations that design, develops and certifies nationally recognised qualifications and awards.

All qualifications are regulated by Ofqual and are the perfect way to boost any CV.

How many free online courses can I take?

You can only take one course at a time but you can take up to 7 in one academic year.

Do I need to sit an Exam?

No, there are no exams, all courses require you to complete assessment questions based on the knowledge you have just gained from the units.

Why am I required to upload such personal information?

The courses we offer are all funded qualifications, meaning you need to be eligible for government funding in order to secure your a place. This information is a funding requirement and proves your eligibility.