Level 3 Understanding Autism
Learn how to support people with autism
Designed for learners who want to increase their knowledge and understanding of the condition, and the challenges and strengths that autistic people may experience. This qualification allows learners to progress into a specialism or SEN role for current teaching assistants or will help give your CV the edge over other candidates applying for similar job roles in sectors like education and healthcare.
- Autism in context
- Positive behavioural support for autistic individuals
- Support and management of transitions for autistic individuals
- Therapeutic interventions and support available for autistic individuals and co-occurring conditions
- Safeguarding and resilience in autism
- Learn about characteristics, diagnosis and how understanding and different theories surrounding autism have developed over time



What you'll be studying
Our Level 3 Understanding Autism course will prepare you for various roles in educational and support settings, such as Autism Support Assistant, Special Educational Needs (SEN) Coordinator and Behavioural Support Specialist. This course is particularly beneficial for those working in primary schools, but the skills and knowledge gained can be applied across different age groups and settings.
Autism in Context
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the historical context of autism.
- Understand the diagnosis and characteristics of autism.
- Understand the legislative framework applicable to autism.
- Understand how autism is represented in society.
Positive Behavioural Support for Individuals with Autism
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand behaviour within the context of autism.
- Understand how to promote an autism-friendly environment.
- Understand how to promote individual positive behavioural support.
- Understand interventions used in behavioural support.
Understand Support and Management of Transitions for Individuals with Autism
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand how transitions can affect people with autism.
- Understand how to support young people with autism to make the transition into adulthood.
- Understand how to support individuals with autism into employment.
Therapeutic Interventions and Support Available for Individuals with Autism and Co-Occurring Conditions
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand the range of therapeutic interventions available to individuals with autism.
- Understand the services available to individuals with autism and their families.
- Understand co-occurring conditions and their treatment.
Communication and Social Interaction with Individuals with Autism
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand differences in social interaction and communication associated with autism.
- Understand how own communication can be adapted to support positive interactions and communication with individuals with autism.
- Understand a range of strategies and aids used to support communication and social interaction for individuals with autism.
Safeguarding and Resilience in Autism
On completion of this unit, you will:
- Understand how to raise concerns about potential or actual harm, abuse, or exploitation.
- Understand how to support the health, safety, and wellbeing of individuals.
- Understand how the legislative framework safeguards children, young people, and adults with autism.
- Understand how and when restrictive practices might be used within legal guidelines.
Career Progression
- Senior Autism Support Worker
- Autism Specialist Support Worker
- Autism Support Coordinator
- Autism Specialist Teacher or Practitioner (with additional qualifications)
- Autism Services Manager
- Potential pathway to behaviour analysis or occupational therapy (with further education)
Autism Support Worker Salary

Why Choose Think Employment?

Personalised Learning Journey
Experience a tailored curriculum designed to develop practical skills, explore real-world scenarios, and encourage reflective learning—preparing you for real workplace challenges.

Flexible Online Study Options
Study anytime, anywhere, with 24/7 access to our e-learning platform. Balance learning with work or family, progressing at your pace for complete flexibility

Expert Mentorship
Receive expert guidance from experienced adult education professionals who provide personalised feedback and help you bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Comprehensive Careers Guidance
Our career advisors support you with CV writing, interview preparation, and portfolio building, helping you excel in your future job roles.