When will we learn: Lost Learning
Autistic children and young people have long faced barriers to education, but recent years have made these challenges even worse. Many have missed out on vital learning due to a lack of timely support, inaccessible education, and systems that fail to meet their needs.
Our When will we learn: Lost Learning report reveals the impact of these challenges and sets out clear recommendations for change. Every autistic child and young person deserve an education that enables them to thrive. It’s time to act.
Ending Lost Learning briefing
Read the evidence behind our call for every school to have the knowledge and confidence to support autistic pupils.
The challenge
Many autistic children and young people have missed vital learning opportunities due to:
- lack of timely support: families struggle to access assessments and the right educational support
- school exclusions: autistic pupils are disproportionately excluded, both formally and informally. Often appearing as in education whilst actually being excluded to a separate part of the school. Nearly three-quarters (71%) of autistic pupils experience some form of lost learning
- inaccessible learning environments: Many schools lack the necessary adjustments and resources to support autistic students effectively.
What needs to change?
Lost learning is not just about missed lessons—it’s about missed opportunities, support, and stability. Too many autistic children are struggling in a system that does not meet their needs, leaving them without the education they deserve. Urgent action is needed to remove barriers, provide the right support, and ensure every autistic child can reach their full potential.
To address the issue of lost learning among autistic pupils, the report outlines several key changes needed:
- Protect current SEND rights and sustain funding
Reaffirm existing rights of autistic pupils and ensure they are not diluted. Transparently reconsider harmful proposals in the 2023 Special Educational Needs (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) Improvement Plan. Embed co-production in policy development and implementation. - Train teachers and school staff on autism
Embed standardised autism-specific modules in initial teacher training and early career framework (ITTECF) programs. Invest in continuing professional development (CPD) on autism for all staff. - Enable a strategic shift towards prevention of lost learning
Strengthen roles and responsibilities around lost learning. Improve data collection and accountability around lost learning.
By implementing these recommendations, the education system can become more inclusive and supportive, ensuring that every autistic child receives the education and support they need to thrive.
How you can help
Autistic children and young people should never be denied an education because of a system that fails to support them. We need to put them back in the picture.
Take action now – share the When will we learn: Lost Learning report with your MP and demand urgent change. Together, we can ensure that every autistic child gets the education they deserve.
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