[Ilostmyguntoday]

Hey,

In the next couple of years I am looking to change careers and start work either as a teacher or teaching assistant in a school for children with autism. With my job now I get a bit of money to do some educational courses before I leave. Im just not sure which courses would stand me in the best stead. I have looked at the Makaton signing and SEN stuff and they seem pretty good starting blocks.

Does anyone else work in this field and has completed some of these courses? Any help or advice would be awesome.

Thanks in advance.

Hello Ilostmyguntday: I'm sorry no one has responded to this Thread. Unfortunately, I do not have any useful information to offer either. Perhaps another PC member will yet come along who will be able to provide some answers to your question. Best wishes with regard to your future career change!

[CosmicRose]

I have not worked in that field, but I often wonder if I'd be really good at it because I have anxiety and love to teach, but can't stand the strictness of a regular classroom. Might be nice working with kids who think outside the box, and not in such a rigid environment.

[dancinglady]

I don't know about there but where I am at if you have a documented mental illness u are not allowed to work with disabled children or adults. U can't even volunteer to be a foster grandparent. They believe u are a danger to people who are vunerable

[lizardlady]

Ilostmyguntoday, I live in the States so don't know what's available for you in the UK. Have you tried googling available classes? Or what about a phone call to a uni that has education classes? They might be able to direct you in the right direction.

Here in the States there's training to become a behavioral specialist. Maybe there is something similar where you are?

As for not being able to teach if you have a documented mental illness, in my state I don't think there is any such restriction.

Good luck to you!