Asking for reasonable adjustments.

Reasonable Adjustments in Schools for Autistic Students

Simple, low-cost changes that can make school life easier

Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and understood at school — and for autistic students, that often means making a few simple changes to help them thrive.

Under the Equality Act 2010, schools have a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled pupils, including those who are autistic.  These adjustments ensure that your child isn’t placed at a disadvantage compared to others — and many of them cost little (or nothing) to put in place.

This isn’t about asking for special treatment.  It’s about helping your child access learning in a way that works for them.

What Are Reasonable Adjustments?

“Reasonable adjustments” are practical steps a school can take to reduce barriers that make learning harder for your child. What’s considered reasonable depends on:

your child’s individual needs,

the school’s size and resources,

and how easily the adjustment can be made.

Most importantly, these adjustments are meant to help your child feel calm, capable, and included — not singled out.

Examples of No-Cost or Low-Cost Adjustments

Clear Communication

Use of visual timetables or written instructions.

Avoiding idioms or sarcasm; keeping communication clear and direct.

Providing reminders or prompts for key parts of the day.

Letting them know in advance of upcoming changes

Checking their understanding after a task is set

Predictability & Routine

Giving advance notice of timetable changes or special events.

Having a visible daily schedule.

Allowing extra time for transitions between activities.

Keeping seating arrangements the same

Sensory Support

Allowing ear defenders or fidget toys.

Seating your child somewhere with minimal noise or visual distractions.

Offering short sensory or movement breaks or access to a calm, quiet space.

Allow adjustments to uniform

Flexible Learning Approaches

Allowing work to be typed or dictated instead of handwritten.

Giving extra processing time to answer questions.

Not “cold calling” them in lessons (i.e asking them a question in front of the class)

Avoiding forced eye contact or group work if it causes stress.

Emotional & Social Support

Assigning a trusted adult or safe space your child can go to when overwhelmed.

Using calm, consistent communication.

Offering social alternatives — like quiet lunch clubs or supervised down-time.

Give them a job/responsibility to do on arrival at school – lay out pens, taking registers to classes.

Working with Your Child’s School

You don’t need to have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to ask for reasonable adjustments.  If your child is struggling with anxiety, meltdowns, or sensory overwhelm, these supports can often be put in place quickly by the class teacher or SENCo.

The best approach is to start a collaborative, respectful conversation with the school — explain what helps your child and what specific changes would make a difference.

Template Email for Parents

Here’s a gentle but assertive email you can adapt when reaching out to your child’s school:

Subject: Request for Reasonable Adjustments for [Child’s Name]

Dear [Teacher’s Name / SENCo],

I hope you’re well. I’m writing to discuss some reasonable adjustments that could help support [Child’s Name] in school. As you know, [he/she/they] is autistic and sometimes finds certain aspects of the school day challenging.

Many of these adjustments are small, practical changes that can make a big difference.

Here are a few ideas that could help [Child’s Name]:

[List 3–5 relevant adjustments, e.g. use of visual timetable, quiet space at breaktime, notice of timetable changes, access to fidget toy, etc.]

I’d really appreciate the opportunity to meet and discuss what’s possible so we can work together to help [Child’s Name] feel comfortable and confident at school.

Thank you so much for your time and understanding.  Please let me know when would be a good time to meet or speak.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]

Final Thoughts

Advocating for your child doesn’t have to be a battle — it’s about working in partnership with the school so your child feels understood, supported, and happy to learn.

Remember: small adjustments can make a huge difference.  And as a parent, you’re the expert on what your child needs — your voice matters.