Autism Awareness

Level 2 - Certificate

What is Level 2?

This is the equivalent to GCSE grades 9-4 / A*-C, O Level grades A- C or an Intermediate Apprenticeship.

This qualification aims to develop learner’s understanding of autism and the principles of supporting autistic individuals.

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Level 2

This is the equivalent to GCSE grades 9-4 / A*-C, O Level grades A- C or an Intermediate Apprenticeship.

Find out about progression

Course description

The course will cover strategies for supporting autistic individuals, including the person-centred approach, communication, and positive behaviour. It will also consider how individuals with autism can be supported to live healthy and fulfilled lives. It has been designed for learners who wish to develop an understanding of autism and how to support individuals with autism at work or in personal life.

Course content

You will cover the following modules:

Introduction to autism
Using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism
Communication and social interaction in individuals with autism
Sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism
Supporting positive behaviour in individuals with autism
Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives

What can this course lead to?

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to:

• Level 3 Diploma for the Children’s Workforce (Early Years Educator)
• Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Adults) for England
• Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England)
• Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism

Additionally, the objective of this qualification is to help learners to progress within employment in a variety of sectors, and in a number of job roles where an understanding of autism and knowledge of how to support people with autism is required.

Course session dates

Tailored Learning Objective

Preparation for employment

When does this start and end?

5 March 2026 - 17 May 2026

What are the entry requirements?

There are no specific recommended prior learning requirements for this qualification. However, learners may find it helpful if they have already achieved a Level 1 qualification.

1 in 4 people in the UK are living with a mental ill health condition. Studies have shown that taking part in education helps people to increase their confidence, social participation and sense of achievement. Studying at Northern College provides a safe space to explore mental health and wellbeing, raising positive awareness. As well as being supported by tutors with a wealth of knowledge and experience around the subject you will also be able to connect to other like minded students.

Zoe Graham Tutor - Society, Health and Development

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The staff and tutors are amazing and can give you the confidence to achieve your goals. Cannot recommend this place enough.

Northern College did and still is changing my life; it changes people too. It opens your mind to your dreams, and makes them a reality.

I was made to feel that I did matter and that I was worthy. I was encouraged and supported when I thought I couldn't do it. Despite all the failures I had previously had at other places, I did it at Northern College because I was supported by people who believed in me.

Awesome tutors and a very friendly place. I wish I was still there.