3 hours self directed content. The SNAs can go through this material as a group or in their own time.This can be used for Croke Park hours, school closure day or whenever your school wants CPD for SNAs.  Please share the link with them after purchasing. There is a certificate of attendance included which needs to be printed and signed on completion of the material. 

Supporting Students with SLCN - Speech Language Communication Needs Post primary

Session 1: Understanding Autism in Post-Primary through a Neuro-Affirmative Lens (60 mins)

This professional learning session supports Post-Primary SNAs to deepen their understanding of autism from a neuro-affirmative perspective. Participants will explore how autistic students experience the post-primary environment, challenge common myths, and focus on strengths-based, respectful support strategies that promote autonomy, engagement and wellbeing. Practical, school-relevant approaches and examples will be shared throughout

Session 2: Communication, Regulation & Relationships with Autistic Teenagers 60 mins

This professional learning session explores the interconnected foundations of communication, emotional regulation and relationships for autistic teenagers in post-primary settings. Grounded in a neuro-affirmative approach, the session will examine how stress, sensory differences and social demands impact communication and behaviour. It explains why “social skills” training is outdated and what we can focus on instead

Participants will gain practical, school-based strategies to support co-regulation, strengthen connection and respond in ways that protect dignity, autonomy and wellbeing.

Session 3: Visuals: Structure and Predictability without Rigidity  60 mins

This one-hour professional learning session explores how visual supports can create clarity, reduce anxiety and strengthen independence for autistic students in post-primary settings. 

Grounded in a neuro-affirmative approach, the session will examine how structure and predictability can support regulation and engagement — without becoming inflexible or compliance-focused.

Participants will gain practical, classroom-ready strategies for using visuals in ways that promote autonomy, dignity and meaningful participation

Bio of Presenter: Amy Collins

Amy is a graduate of the Masters in Speech and Language Therapy in the University of Limerick where she graduated in 2010, having completed her Degree in Early Childhood Studies in UCC. Amy has spent her career to date specialising in her passion in supporting Autistic and neurodiverse children, teenagers and adults. Amy has extensive and international experience as a specialist SLT in a range of disability and education teams in Ireland and New Zealand, where she worked for the Ministry of Education. Amy has also worked as Clinical Lead SLT in the NCSE and brings an understanding of both the clinical and educational aspects to supporting autistic students. Amy is passionate in educating and updating other professionals’ knowledge with new information and supporting families to advocate for their child’s needs.