Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has called for greater awareness of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) within schools and for teacher training to better reflect the differing needs of children with autism.
During Education Questions in the House of Commons on Monday, 14 September, Julian highlighted that children with a PDA profile of autism can require a very different approach from school staff in order to engage with education successfully. He stressed the importance of ensuring teachers and frontline school staff understand these different autism profiles and have the tools needed to respond effectively.
Julian also sought assurances that work being carried out through the independent prevalence review is helping to inform the Government's approach to supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities.
In response, Georgia Gould OBE MP, Minister for School Standards, confirmed that she is working closely with the independent prevalence review and acknowledged concerns raised by families about PDA. She said an independent panel has been asked to look specifically at PDA and highlighted the Government's focus on improving teacher training alongside greater access to specialist support for schools, including educational psychologists and occupational therapists.
You can watch Julian's question, and the Minister's answer here.
