Why the Autism Voice needs representation in apprenticeships | Latest updates

Life deals as many challenges, but for someone on the #autistic spectrum, those challenges are increased. I am a woman in my forties and, in my late twenties, I was diagnosed with high-functioning Asperger’s. This is a hidden disability and lifelong condition. People on the autism spectrum can often be ignored, forgotten or neglected

Too much emphasis is placed on the negative aspects. People hear the word autism and think they can't do certain things.

Why not focus on what they can do? You will be pleasantly surprised.

Also has anyone ever stopped to ask someone on the spectrum whether they wish to refer to themselves as having a disorder or condition?

It is up to the individual. For me, I prefer condition.

During my GCSE years, it was interesting to learn that while one teacher expected me to change my interests to fit in (thinking that if I spoke clothes, hair and makeup, I would make more friends), another said I was a delight to have in the classroom.

Finding and maintaining long-term employment was always a struggle, but in March 2010, with help from EADS (Employment and Disability Service), I was able to find a job as an administration assistant with Northamptonshire County Council.

I have been with the council for over 11 years. In 2019, I began an NVQ Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship to assist with broadening my horizons and learning new skills. This proved to be extremely valuable in my role. I gained an overall grade of distinction on completion and started my current role the year after.

Alongside my apprenticeship, I also completed and gained qualifications in Functional Level 2 English and maths (equivalent to a GCSE grade C).

Without these, I would not have been able to proceed to my apprenticeship end point assessments .

What can be done to help apprentices with autism and or learning difficult disabilities?

Some of the ways that could help with someone on the autism spectrum and or learning disabilities are:

• Reasonable adjustments
• Large print and easy read documents
• Allowing documents to be used as handouts for apprenticeship endpoint assessments (using screenshots may not work for everyone)

Simple wording and bullet point:

• Colour coding elements (knowledge, skills and behaviours)
• Apprenticeship buddies/mentors (including apprentice alumni)
• Apprenticeship taster sessions (giving someone a chance to experience a workshop)
• In regards to apprenticeship end point assessment

As part of my apprenticeship end point assessments, I did a knowledge test project presentation and portfolio interview, but at times I felt a little rushed. I finished ahead of time with my project presentation, but to expand the time as per instruction from my end point assessor, I had to go backwards to give additional information.

If I had been reasonable adjustments with extra time, I wouldn't have felt quite so pressured. One thing I forgot to do was page number my interview evidence, but luckily for me, I had a good memory and could give answers without having to think too much.

If someone on the autistic spectrum is thinking about undertaking an apprenticeship, but unsure about what to expect, a taster session within the chosen field could prove useful, as it would give them first-hand experience about what it is like in that setting.

If they still wish to proceed with the apprenticeship after, then an apprenticeship buddy/mentor, or even an alumni apprentice, could be considered to be on hand for moral support and guidance. It would also provide reassurance and motivation.

Rhiannon Rees-Jones, Learning Disability Team – Daventry/South Northants Hub, West Northamptonshire Council and Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education Apprentice Panel Member

Achievements:

• 2014 – Employment Related Services Association (ERSA) Awards: Highly Commended for Significant Achievement
• 2020 – Northamptonshire Health and Care Partnership (NHCP) Apprentice Awards: Winner for ‘Behind the Scenes’ in Adult Social Care and Apprentice of the Year