Neurodiversity Training

Neurodiversity is what makes humanity so remarkable

When we talk about neurodiversity training, what we really mean is building greater understanding of neurodivergence, and working towards environments that genuinely include and support people who think and experience the world differently.

This includes everything from rethinking communication styles; to creating sensory-friendly spaces; to addressing the assumptions we might not even realise we hold.

As one of Scotland’s largest specialist providers of support for autistic people, Scottish Autism brings over 60 years of experience to the table. Our training isn’t generic. It’s shaped by decades of working directly with autistic people, families, and professionals across a range of settings. Through our dedicated Centre for Practice, Policy and Research, we connect participants with the latest thinking from both academic and community-led research.

We believe the best learning comes from combining cutting-edge research with real-world insight. Our Training and Consultancy team collaborates closely with advisors and autistic voices to make sure what we deliver is accurate, relevant, and impactful. This means our courses are practical, person-centred, and always evolving in response to what the community tells us it needs.

What makes our training different is that it’s about more than awareness; it’s about creating environments where autistic and neurodivergent people are genuinely included, respected, and supported to thrive. Work with us and let’s create lasting change, together.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is probably a word you have heard, but perhaps not completely sure what it means.

The concept was developed by the sociologist Judy Singer in the late 1990’s as a way of recognising and validating differences in thinking and processing information without pathologising or stigmatising difference.

It describes the vast array of differences found within whole populations, not just individuals. Like the term biodiversity describes the vast array of flora and fauna found in the natural world, neurodiversity describes the neurological differences found amongst us all. Just as ecosystems thrive with different species, society can only benefit from different ways of thinking.

The language we use to recognise someone’s identity is really important; getting it wrong can further create stigmatisation, and risks creating further division.

Some people will identify as neurodivergent because they feel that they process and understand the world differently. This includes autistic people, people with ADHD, learning disabilities, and other motor, speech and processing differences. The term neurotypical was coined in the 1990’s by autistic writers, and is now widely used as a way of describing people who’s brain development fits common expectations. Both use of these terms are becoming increasingly common.

Our Training

We believe that everybody deserves to feel understood, but our specialism is autism.

We’ve got a wide range of training options that will ensure that you have the skills, and knowledge you need to create environments where autistic people can thrive.

It’s true though, a lot of the support you might put in place to support an autistic person, may actually end up supporting everyone.

Autism and Sensory Processing

Education and Early Years Health and Social Care Step 2 In-person

Explore how sensory processing differences impact attention, behaviour, and wellbeing in autistic people, and learn practical ways to offer meaningful support in everyday environments.

Understanding and Supporting Communication

Education and Early Years Health and Social Care Step 2 In-person

Learn how autistic people may experience and express communication differently, and explore ways to support effective, respectful communication in your setting.

Understanding Autism for Health and Social Care Practitioners

Health and Social Care Step 1 In-person

Deliver more inclusive, person-centred support with training that deepens your understanding of autism.

Understanding Autism for Employers

For Everyone Step 1 In-person

Everyone deserves the opportunity to find meaningful, fulfilling employment, without barriers. Our employment support service works with both individuals and employers to create inclusive workplaces where autistic people can thrive, contribute, and feel valued.

Understanding Autism for Education Practitioners

Education and Early Years Step 1 In-person

Create more inclusive classrooms with training designed to help educators understand and support autistic learners.

Understanding Autism for Community and Voluntary Groups

Community and Voluntary Organisations Step 1 In-person

Build a more inclusive community. Our training supports local organisations in recognising and responding to the needs of autistic people in everyday social spaces.

Want to Know More?

Drop us a message, we’d love to chat to you about how we can support your training needs.

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