Questions to Ask When Choosing a School for Your Autistic Child

Finding the right school for your autistic child can feel like a big decision. Every child has unique strengths, needs, and ways of learning. The school you choose should support your child to feel safe, included, and able to thrive.

This simple checklist will help you ask the right questions when visiting schools and comparing options. Bring it along, make notes, and tick off the areas that feel right for your child.

Bring this list with you when you visit schools. Tick off the areas that feel right for your child, and make notes about how each school responds.

1. Inclusion and Culture

1. How does the school include children with disability in everyday classrooms and activities?
2. What is the school’s attitude towards diversity and inclusion?
3. Can they share examples of autistic students who have done well at the school?

2. Support and Staffing

1. Does the school have Learning & Support Teachers (LaST) or teacher’s aides?
2. What specialist staff are on site (e.g. speech pathologists, OTs, psychologists)?

3. What autism or neurodiversity training do teachers and aides receive?

3. Individual Learning and Plans

1. Will my child have an Individual Learning Plan (ILP)?
2. How are learning goals set, and how often are they reviewed?
3. How will the school track and share progress with me?

4. Environment and Sensory Needs

1. Are there calm rooms or quiet spaces for when children feel overwhelmed?
2. How does the school support sensory needs (lighting, noise, playground routines)?
3. What classroom adjustments are available (visual schedules, flexible seating, fidget tools)?

5. Communication with Families

1. How will the school communicate with me (phone, email, meetings)?
2. How quickly are concerns followed up?
3. Is there a clear process for giving feedback or raising issues?

6. Peer and Social Support

1. How does the school help my child to make friends and join activities?
2. Are there social skills groups or peer mentoring programs?
3. How does the school handle bullying or exclusion?

7. Flexibility and Transition

1. How does the school support transitions (new class, new teacher, moving between activities)?
2. Is a gradual or staggered transition possible if my child needs it?
3. How flexible is the school with attendance or part-time starts?

8. Practical Details

1. What’s the average class size?
2. Are there autism or disability support units available at the school?
3. How does the school work with external providers (NDIS therapists, psychologists)

Every autistic child deserves a school environment where they feel respected, supported, and able to learn. By asking these questions, you’ll be better prepared to find a school that meets your child’s individual needs.

Remember: you are your child’s best advocate—trust your instincts when making school choices