NCFE Understanding Autism Level 3 Cert: Online

This 18-week course will develop knowledge and understanding of Autism, and how to support those who have been diagnosed with Autism.

  • Study Mode

    Part-time

  • Duration

    24 Weeks

  • Location

    Online

Study this course FREE, with no course fees! 

This is a fully online, self-directed, independent study course with assessor support and guidance. Students must have use of a laptop to complete this course and must be aged 19+ at the beginning of the academic year (31 August). 

This 24-week course has a flexible start date and will run until 31 July 2025

This course gives you the chance to develop your knowledge and understanding of Autism, and how to support those who have been diagnosed with Autism.

You will learn about characteristics, diagnosis and how understanding and different theories surrounding autism have developed over time. Within this qualification, the term ‘autism’ is used as an umbrella term for all autistic spectrum conditions, including Asperger syndrome.

To study this 24-week course FREE, with no course fees applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

Criteria 1

  • Are aged 19+ on 31 August prior to starting the course
  • Live in England, not within a non-funded postcode region 
  • Have been in the EU for three years for purposes other than study (and able to provide documentation) 
  • Are unemployed
  • Be actively looking for work
  • Receiving benefits in your own name

Criteria 2

  • Are aged 19+ on 31 August prior to starting the course
  • Live in England, not within a non-funded postcode region 
  • Have been in the EU for three years for purposes other than study (and able to provide documentation) 
  • Are working and earn under £25,000 per year in wages before tax (excluding benefits)

Criteria 3

  • Are aged 19-23 on 31 August prior to starting the course
  • Live in England, not within a non-funded postcode region 
  • Have been in the EU for three years for purposes other than study (and able to provide documentation) 
  • Do not hold a Level 3 qualification in any subject (equivalent to 2 full A levels, an advanced technical certificate or diploma)

Please note: This course is funded via the ‘Free Courses for Jobs’ scheme, subject to meeting the criteria. If you are not eligible for a free course through government funding, you can still gain a qualification to further your career. The course fees are £811, with an Advanced Learner Loan available if required.


More than 1 in every 100 people in the UK have an autism diagnosis. The Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism is designed for learners who want to increase their knowledge and understanding of the condition, and the challenges and strengths that autistic people may experience.

 

You will gain an understanding of:

  • Positive behavioural support for autistic individuals
  • Support and management of transitions for autistic individuals
  • Therapeutic interventions and support available for autistic individuals and co-occuring conditions
  • Safeguarding and resilience in autism

 

In taking this course you will:

  • achieve a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification
  • evidence your competency to employers
  • further your personal and professional development
  • learn at a time that suits you without the need to attend college

This qualification could help you to progress to the follow careers:

  • Learning Mentor
  • Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant
  • Youth Worker

You must have English at either GCSE, Functional Skills Level 2 or equivalent. 

Applicants will need to have a successful assessment and be able to provide their Level 2 certificate.

If you hold international qualifications, we can assess these to see if you meet the criteria.

Fund your qualification with an Advanced Learner Loan with nothing to pay until you earn over £27k a year. 

If you are not eligible for a free course through government funding, you can still gain a qualification to further your career with the help of an advanced learner loan. Find out more about financial support for students aged 19+ and the Advanced Learner Loan. 

Why Bracknell and Wokingham College?

  • Clear routes of progression with qualifications ranging from foundation level to degree level!
  • Industry experienced teaching staff give you the responsibility and independence you need to take charge of your own future.
  • 150+

    Courses available

  • 95%

    of our graduates go into work or higher education 

  • 60+

    years of teaching experience

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