Overcoming Barriers to Educational Opportunities post school

This chapter considers current barriers experienced by autistic students within further and higher education and the ways in which staff and institutions can act to minimise these. It considers the current landscape within the UK, US and elsewhere, and the implications of this for autistic students entering post-compulsory education. The needs of students transitioning from school are considered, with particular regard to the implications of the autism diagnosis and disclosure. The impact of social communication barriers are considered as well as the need for autistic students to have social opportunities available to them. A range of support strategies are described, with the need for a holistic support model being consistently highlighted by the current literature. Considerations with regard to transition out of further and higher education are also discussed, bearing particular relevance in relation to persisting poor outcomes, even for the most academically successful autistic adults. Finally, the actions and support required for staff and institutions are considered. Points for good practice are offered throughout.