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This paper considers recent evidence on autism education in Greece in order to shed light on current developments and attitudes. Given the increase in relevant research in the country, a scoping review to identify topics that have been explored so far and propose areas for future research and implications for practice is timely and necessary. Peer‐reviewed papers published between 2000 and 2019 were identified via electronic databases and their main themes were analysed. Themes related to autistic individual (i.e. the voice of autistic individuals and intervention studies), the family around them (i.e. the role of family and stigma), the role of teachers (i.e. teacher training and teacher stress levels) and the wider society (i.e. parent‐teacher collaboration, the medical/deficit model of disability and inclusion) emerged from the review. The above themes are discussed in the light of the cultural characteristics of Greece and the recent economic crisis the country underwent as well as similar findings from other European countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the authors report on the importance of using Intensive Interaction for the development of non‐verbal communication for people with autism. The complexity of learning non‐verbal communication means that it cannot be taught in any sense in a traditional, didactic manner. While a person may have the cognitive abilities to follow instructions and be taught the need to behave a certain way in social situations, which will not allow them to properly assimilate and understand social expectations and how to operate in social contexts. This paper suggests that the use of Intensive Interaction creates frequent opportunities for a person to take part in face‐to‐face interactions and consequently allow for the gradual development of non‐verbal communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reflects on how school‐based professional learning communities (PLCs) can support the professional learning of educators from different school settings who share a common goal of ensuring quality teaching and learning opportunities for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). PLCs offer the opportunity to move beyond continued professional development that often only requires passive participating in a training session, to an effective culture of professional learning which requires an internal process in which educators can create professional knowledge through interaction with information in a way that challenges previous assumptions and creates new meanings (Timperley, 2011:4‐5). I will describe how sharing classroom‐based knowledge, experiences and expertise across school settings, through a professional learning mind‐set lens, guided by a teacher/educator inquiry and/or knowledge building cycles, promotes meaningful outcomes for pupils. I investigate the similarities and differences between two PLCs I facilitate: the Autism Network for Educators (ANfE) and the Teaching Assistant (TA) Network and how these communities require every participant to demonstrate relentless commitment to self and professional and practice improvement, by valuing on‐going learning and continuous inquiry. PLCs promote the concept of improvement as a team effort for which everyone is responsible. The article concludes that when our pupils become the central purpose of our professional learning, instead of a by‐product of continued professional development, we promote a school‐ and system‐wide culture that offers sustainable professional development thought improved outcomes for every pupil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examination success can be considered a passport to further education and, as a result, higher income and better health. Access arrangements (AAs) are intended to allow fair access to examinations for candidates with disabilities, including those with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There is a lack of research into how AAs should be organised for ASD candidates. Emerging evidence suggests a lack of student involvement in organising AAs in general. This case‐based action research involves students with ASD in deciding on their AAs, alongside members of school staff. Involving these students in organising their AAs improved their self‐esteem and allowed AAs to be closely tailored to individuals, both of which could lead to improved exam performance. Appropriate support to facilitate ASD student involvement is discussed. The novel concept of 'pre‐examination access facilitators' is highlighted, entailing support provided before an exam to facilitate access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article Liz O'Brien discusses the need for a distinctive approach to the religious education of children and young people with autism and/or severe and complex learning disabilities. She describes how an imaginative and creative approach, built on an underlying principle of understanding, empathy and respect in relation to the ‘culture of autism’ can lead to enriching, meaningful and enjoyable RE experiences. Through an RE and Special Needs Fellowship, awarded by the National Society for Promoting Christian Education, she was given the opportunity to assemble Connecting with RE (O'Brien, 2002), a resource for all those seeking accessible RE for children with autism and/or severe and complex learning disabilities. This article presents some of the fundamental philosophy and methodology that underpin the Connecting with RE approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]