Talking to Schools About Autism
Last reviewed: March 2026
Written by: School of Diversity SEND Support Team
Topic: Autism and Educational Support
This guide helps parents understand how to talk to schools about autism, including raising concerns, discussing support needs and working collaboratively with teachers and school staff.
Talking to schools about autism involves sharing concerns about a child’s development, discussing support needs and working collaboratively with teachers and SEN staff to ensure appropriate support is provided in school.
Key Takeaways
Parents can speak to schools if they have concerns about their child’s development.
Schools may provide support through SEN support based on a child’s needs.
Early communication with schools helps ensure appropriate support is put in place.
Parents and schools should work together to support the child.
Clear communication helps ensure concerns are understood and addressed.
Many parents first speak to schools about autism when they notice differences in their child’s communication, behaviour or learning. These conversations can feel difficult, especially if parents are unsure how to raise concerns or what support may be available.
Understanding how to approach these discussions can help parents feel more confident and ensure their child receives appropriate support in school.
When to Talk to Schools About Autism
Direct answer:
Parents may choose to speak to schools when they notice differences in development or learning that may affect their child’s experience in school.
This may include:
communication differences
social interaction challenges
sensory sensitivities
behaviour patterns affecting learning
concerns raised by teachers
Early discussions can help schools begin to understand and support the child’s needs.
Who to Speak to in School
Direct answer:
Parents can usually begin by speaking with their child’s class teacher or the school’s SEN coordinator (SENCO).
Schools may involve:
class teachers
SENCOs
support staff
school leadership where needed
These staff members can help identify support strategies and next steps.
How to Raise Concerns With Schools
Parents may find it helpful to approach conversations in a structured way.
This might include:
describing specific concerns about behaviour or learning
providing examples from home or school
asking how the school is supporting the child
discussing possible next steps
Clear communication helps ensure concerns are understood.
What Schools May Do Next
Direct answer:
Schools may begin to provide support based on a child’s needs, even without a diagnosis.
Schools may:
monitor the child’s progress
provide SEN support
introduce targeted interventions
observe behaviour in different settings
communicate regularly with parents
This helps schools build a clearer understanding of the child’s needs.
Working With Schools to Support Your Child
Collaboration between parents and schools is important.
Parents and schools may:
share information about what works well
review progress regularly
adjust support strategies
work together to support learning
A collaborative approach helps ensure consistent support.
What If You Feel Your Concerns Are Not Being Heard?
Direct answer:
If parents feel concerns are not being addressed, they can continue discussions with school staff or seek additional advice.
Parents may:
request a meeting with the SENCO
provide additional information or evidence
ask for support plans to be reviewed
seek guidance from external professionals
Understanding your options can help ensure concerns are considered.
Talking to Schools Before an Autism Diagnosis
Parents do not need a diagnosis to speak to schools about support.
Schools can:
provide SEN support
monitor development
introduce strategies to support learning
Early support can be put in place while assessment is being considered.
Talking to Schools About EHCP Support
Direct answer:
If a child’s needs are significant, parents may discuss additional support such as an EHCP with the school.
Schools may help parents:
understand the EHCP process
gather evidence
discuss whether additional support may be needed
Parents can also request an assessment directly from the local authority.
Preparing for a School Meeting
Parents may find it helpful to prepare before meeting with school staff.
This might include:
writing down concerns
bringing examples of behaviour or learning
preparing questions
reviewing previous school reports
Preparation can help meetings feel more structured and productive.
FAQ
Can parents talk to schools about autism without a diagnosis?
Yes. Schools can provide support based on a child’s needs without a diagnosis.
Who should parents speak to first in school?
Parents can usually start by speaking with the class teacher or SENCO.
Can schools refuse to provide support?
Schools should consider a child’s needs and provide appropriate support where possible.
.What if parents disagree with the school?
Parents can request further meetings and seek additional advice if needed.
Explore More Autism Guidance
If you are exploring support for your child, you may find these guides helpful:
You can also explore our Autism Support for Parents hub, which explains autism signs, assessments and school support in more detail.