Translating research to practice: Supporting autistic and neurodivergent learners with Triple-A at school (Attention, Sensory Arousal and Anxiety)

Learning and school-life can be difficult for many autistic pupils. Based on a programme of research on differences and difficulties with attention, sensory arousal and anxiety at school for autistic pupils, a group of researchers and practitioners have developed a neuro-affirmative, evidenced-based training called ‘Triple-A’. Triple-A refers to an interconnected set of challenges with attention, sensory arousal and anxiety at school, and the concept emphasises the impact of the environment in terms of giving rise to challenges. The training was co-designed with autistic people, parents, teachers and autism researchers to change understanding of Triple-A and provide a package of practical supports. Evidence of the training’s use and impact since its launch in March 2022 was overwhelmingly positive: it has had significant reach with educators in the UK; it has also reached a world-wide audience, as well as many professionals relevant for supporting autistic people beyond educational settings. Evidence speaks very favourably to positive impact in terms of changing understanding and practice of supporting autistic pupils, but also neurodivergent pupils more broadly. Future work on Triple-A will focus on reaching those school staff who may not ordinarily opt-in for training of this kind.