When your child is diagnosed with autism—or you’re waiting on a diagnosis—it can feel like stepping into a whole new world. Suddenly, there’s a wave of information, advice, acronyms… and overwhelm.
Many parents ask:
“Where can I find free, reliable autism training that actually helps me understand and support my child?”
We hear you. Here are some of the best free autism courses and resources available to UK parents and carers right now.
1. The Open University – “Understanding Autism”
📍 OpenLearn: Understanding Autism
A brilliant 8-week free course written by academics and autistic people. Flexible, evidence-based, and provides a downloadable certificate at the end.
2. Autism Education Trust (AET)
📍 www.autismeducationtrust.org.uk
Offers free downloadable guides and training materials. Some of their courses are delivered locally via schools or councils—so check your local SEND offer.
3. National Autistic Society (NAS)
The NAS has free webinars, downloadable guides, and advice for every stage of the autism journey. Some in-depth courses may cost a little, but a lot of content is free.
4. Local NHS and Council-Run Courses
Look out for:
- EarlyBird (for parents of under 5s)
- Cygnet (ages 5–18)
- Sleep and anxiety workshops
- Behaviour support and EHCP training
Check your Local Offer website, SENDIASS, or CAMHS team to access these.
5. Ambitious About Autism
📍 www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk
Free resources, webinars, and toolkits for families with autistic children and young people. Topics include navigating education, anxiety, and preparing for adulthood.
6. Contact Charity – For Families With Disabled Children
Offers free workshops and training on everything from DLA and EHCPs to behaviour and wellbeing. Available online and in-person.
Why It’s Worth Learning
Understanding autism helps you support your child—and fight for the help they need. Whether you’re battling for an EHCP, managing meltdowns, or preparing for transition, knowledge gives you confidence and clarity.
✨ Bonus Tip: Join SEND Parent Facebook Groups
Lots of training is shared by word of mouth! Parents are brilliant at flagging upcoming webinars and free sessions. (You’ll also feel less alone.)
Need More Than Training?
That’s why we built AskEllie.co.uk.
Ask Ellie is a free AI-powered assistant trained in UK SEND law. She can help you:
- Draft emails and complaints
- Understand EHCP rules
- Challenge decisions
- Find answers, fast
Because learning is just the beginning—sometimes you also need a bit of backup.
❤️ You’ve got this.
📚 You don’t have to pay a fortune to understand autism.
🤝 And you’re not alone on the journey.
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