On the 2nd of April we celebrate World Autism Awareness Day, a special day dedicated to increasing understanding and acceptance of autism. In St. Declan’s, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all children, including those with autism, feel valued and accepted.

Autism is a spectrum, meaning that each autistic child has unique strengths and challenges. Some children may find social interactions difficult, struggle with sensory sensitivities, or need extra support with communication and transitions. Others may have amazing talents in areas such as memory, creativity, or problem-solving.

How We Support Our Autistic Students

• We encourage kindness and understanding, teaching all children that differences should be celebrated. 
• We provide sensory-friendly spaces and strategies to help children regulate their emotions. 
• We use visual aids, structured routines, and clear communication to support learning. 
• We promote peer inclusion by encouraging friendships and positive interactions. 

How You Can Help

• Talk to your child about autism, emphasizing that everyone’s brain works in different ways, and that being different is okay! 
• Encourage kindness and patience when interacting with peers who may communicate or behave differently. 
• Remind children that small gestures—like saying hello, offering help, or simply playing together—can make a big difference. 

Thank you to the pupils, parents, staff and professionals who spoke at our Autism Awareness Assembly today. In particular well done to Fiadh Shaw Room 15, Sam Conway Room 20 and Logan Mokdad Sheehan Room 10 and Lucas Mokdad Sheehan for their amazing contributions. Listening to them was incredibly inspiring. 

Thank you for your continued support in making St. Declan’s a place where every child feels safe, valued, and included.