What is autism?

Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodivergent condition that affects a learner’s communication, behaviour and social interaction. 

This includes difficulties with understanding facial expressions or changes in someone’s tone of voice. Some learners also find it difficult to make eye contact during conversations. And others may have a preference for routines and predictable habits and interactions. Some learners are completely non-verbal which means that they communicate through signs and behaviours instead of speaking. 

Symptoms and traits can vary widely and it affects each person very differently, which is why we use the term ‘spectrum’ or ‘scale’. 

At The Learning Compass, we recognize that every individual with autism has unique abilities. Many learners with autism have incredible memories, strong passions for special topics and unique creative skills.

So it is our job as tutors to help learners recognise their amazing potential and thrive. 

 

  • Clear communication in the learner’s preferred language.
  • Ongoing feedback to ensure consistent personalisation and progress.
  • Focusing on confidence-building and essential life skills alongside academic success.
  • Flexible tutoring arrangements, including breaks, to accommodate attention and energy levels.

Why Choose The Learning Compass for Autism Support?

The Learning Compass connects students with specialist tutors who understand autism and use strategies to create meaningful and fulfilling sessions. 

We ensure learners can thrive through individualised learning methods, whether that means teaching in a preferred location or maintaining sensory preferences and rigid structures that help them feel comfortable and relaxed. 

These strategies enhance focus, retention and organisation which means learners can reach their potential in their own time and prepare them for the future. Many learners with autism find it difficult to live a life in a world that does not accommodate their needs. 

We want to create open, inclusive spaces where learners have the freedom and opportunity to learn the way they want to. 

Customised Learning Plans:

 

  • Learning plans are tailored to each learner’s strengths, challenges, and personal goals.
  • Use of autism-friendly strategies to maintain engagement and focus.
  • Clear, achievable objectives to track regular progress and keep learners motivated.

Expert Tutors Specialising in Autism:

  • Qualified and experienced tutors with the expertise to address diverse needs.
  • Multilingual tutors ensure comfortable and effective communication.
  • Engaging and adaptable teaching methods to create a dynamic learning environment.
  • A compassionate, patient approach so learners feel supported and understood.

Multilingual Support options:

  • A broad selection of languages ensures an inclusive learning community.
  • Tutors respect the cultural and religious backgrounds of learners to help them thrive.
  • Learners can express themselves easily in their preferred language, reducing frustration and boosting focus.
  • Having a tutor who speaks the learner’s native language ensures smooth progress.
  • Promotes collaboration and builds positive working relationships.

How Our Tutors Assist Learners with Autism:

  • Focused one-on-one tutoring to improve concentration and attention.
  • Fun and interactive activities designed to inspire enthusiasm and motivation.
  • Support in developing organisational skills and establishing consistent learning routines.
  • Ongoing encouragement to recognize achievements and build self-esteem.

FAQs

If you have a question, you might find your answer below. This section covers a wide range of topics, including account setup and premium membership benefits.

 

FAQs

1. How can I find a tutor who understands autism and speaks my language?

The Learning Compass allows learners to filter tutors based on subject, language, and specialised expertise. This makes it easy to find a tutor who understands autism and speaks your preferred language.

2. What age groups do you support for autism tutoring?

We support learners of all ages, from children to adults.

3. How can I determine if I/my child has autism without a diagnosis?

We recommend consulting with your GP, an educational psychologist, or another healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis. While our tutors are skilled at identifying common signs of autism and using the appropriate strategies, only a healthcare professional can provide an official diagnosis.

4. Do you offer online autism tutoring?

Yes, we offer both online and in-person tutoring options throughout the UK to accommodate the needs of all learners, no matter where they live.

5. Can The Learning Compass assist if I/my child hasn’t been diagnosed with autism yet?

Absolutely! Our tutors have experience working with individuals showing autism-like symptoms, providing strategies to improve focus and organisation, regardless of a formal diagnosis.

6. How do tutors create customised learning plans for students with autism?

Many tutors offer a free initial assessment, so please confirm this with your tutor before booking. After the first session or assessment, the tutor will design a personalised learning plan tailored to the learner’s specific needs.

7. How often should I/my child have tutoring sessions?

The frequency of tutoring sessions is entirely flexible and depends on your schedule and the learner’s needs. We recommend 1-2 sessions per week and our tutors will work with you to establish a routine that fits your lifestyle. You may decide to increase these if you are working towards a goal within a particular timeframe, such as an exam.

8. How can I get started with tutoring?

Click on this link (insert link) to select your preferences using the search filters.

If you can’t find a suitable tutor, you can submit a request on the bulletin board. This request will be sent to all premium tutors, and one will contact you. Once you find the right tutor, you can remove the request from the bulletin.

9. Can tutoring improve school/work performance if I/my child has autism?

Yes! Our tutors focus on teaching life skills that improve academic abilities, organisation, and concentration. These skills are transferable to many areas, helping individuals succeed both in and outside the classroom or workplace.

10. Do all tutors have experience working with autism?

Every tutor who lists autism as a specialisation has relevant experience working with learners with autism.

11. How will tutors provide feedback on progress?

Discuss your feedback preferences with your tutor during your initial consultations, as each tutor has their own approach. Your tutor will adapt their methods to suit your preferences.

12. Will my/my child’s autism affect their learning as a non-English speaker?

Autistic learners who speak different languages may encounter additional challenges due to language barriers in the UK school system and mature work environments, particularly if they have grown up in a country where teachers are not familiar with autistic learning traits. Our tutors are trained to support multilingual learners with autism, helping them navigate these barriers and learn effectively.

The process for finding an autism specialist tutor

Get started with autism support today:

 

  1. Learners can search for tutors based on filters for language, subject, location, and preferred tutoring style. 
  2. Choose a tutor from the list of available options. 
  3. Reach out to tutors using the in-built messaging system. 
  4. Discuss goals, challenges, and pricing, and confirm whether a free consultation is available. 
  5. Confirm that both the tutor and the learner are satisfied with the personalised plan. 
  6. If no suitable tutor is found, learners can post a request on the bulletin, which will be sent to all premium tutors. 
  7. A tutor will contact you if they believe they are a good match.