• Access Duration: 12 Months
• Awarded by: NCFE CACHE
• Qualification Level: Level 2
• Qualification Number: 601/6330/6
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 152
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 180
• Total Credit Value: 18

• Understand what is meant by ‘autism’.
• Know theories that relate to autism.
• Understand speech, language, and communication in individuals with autism.
• Understand how autistic individuals process sensory information.
• Understand behaviour within the context of autism.
• Know how to support individuals to maintain their personal safety, access services and facilities, and live healthy, fulfilled lives.

The NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism gives you practical knowledge about autism, communication strategies and behaviour. With autism support skills you gain, you can pursue the following careers.

Potential career opportunities:

• Support Workers in Health or Social Care
• Care Assistants in Schools, Clinics, or Community Settings
• Community Support Assistants
• Residential or Day Care Support Workers
• Trainee Health and Social Care Workers
• Volunteer or Peer Support Roles in Autism Services
• Rehabilitation or Recovery Support Roles
• Assistant Practitioners in Health, Social Care, or Autism Support

• Minimum entry age is 16 and above
• No formal entry requirements are set by the awarding body.

To complete the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism, you will compile a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of autism, its features, and how to support individuals effectively. Your portfolio may include written reports, essays, reflective accounts, case studies, infographics, presentations, and professional discussions. As this is a knowledge‑only qualification, you do not need to complete a work placement. Your evidence may come from simulated activities or real‑life examples where applicable. 

Internal Assessment and Quality Assurance 

All assessments are conducted internally by qualified assessors at South London College. To ensure fairness, consistency, and high standards, Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) checks are carried out throughout the assessment process. 

Assessment evidence can include practical tasks, project work, reports, observations, professional discussions, and other suitable methods, all designed to show that you have achieved the required learning outcomes and assessment criteria. 

Assessor Guidance and Support 

Our experienced assessors will guide and support you throughout the assessment process. You can reach them via email, WhatsApp, web chat, or online discussions, so expert advice is always at hand. 

For any questions about assessment methods, processes, or specific qualification requirements, please click ‘Enquire Now’ to connect with our team. 

The NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism gives you a practical introduction to autism and how to support individuals effectively. You’ll explore key principles of autism, understand how communication, behaviour, and sensory needs may vary, and develop the knowledge to provide compassionate, person‑centred support. The course equips you with essential skills to respond to individual needs, promote wellbeing, and understand best practices in autism support.

Next Steps for a Possible Academic Progression Pathway:

• Step 1: Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism
• Step 2: Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
• Step 3: Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care

Alternative Pathways

• NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
• Level 3 Diploma in Psychology

The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism gives you a practical introduction to autism, how it affects communication and behaviour, and the skills needed to provide person‑centred support.

Here are some careers you can pursue as you gain experience and qualifications, along with their average salaries (Source: UK Glassdoor):

• Support Workers in Health or Social Care – £18,000
• Residential or Day Care Support Workers – £18,000
• Care Assistants in Schools, Clinics, or Community Settings – £19,000
• Community Support Assistants – £19,000

With further training & advanced qualifications, you can also progress to higher-level Functional Skills or vocational qualifications.

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It helps your employers understand how advanced your qualification is and the kind of skills and knowledge it provides