Autism
Autism is a life-long condition that affects a person’s ability to make sense of the world. It is known as an ASC (ASC) because it includes a wide range of differences
The Cheshire East Autism Team (CEAT)
The CEAT are a small school-focused team of teaching and support staff with considerable experience and qualifications in the field of autism. They provide specialist support for children in years 1 to 13 attending Cheshire East schools via the School Consultation model.
A diagnosis is not needed for the team to become involved with a pupil, however as it is a school based service request, the school has a procedure to follow which is outlined in the One minute guide - Cheshire East Autism Team a guide for parents ( PDF, 163KB).
Once a school has identified a student as having social and communication differences, they will need to complete the CEAT consultation paperwork, including gaining parental consent.
The school will then attend scheduled CEAT meetings where strategies will be discussed and an action plan will be decided.
A decision will then be made for whether a school observation is needed. Discussions and model interventions (as required) will then take place with the child, family and school. Then a report or record of visits will be created outlining involvement and recommendation.
Further follow up visits and contacts as required will be provided.
One minute guide - The role of the Family Liaison Officer
Assessment and Diagnosis
NHS services for children and young people with autism or looking for an assessment or diagnosis in Cheshire East can be found on the Autism Hub: Autism Hub: Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (cwp.nhs.uk) along with advice and guidance around things like reasonable adjustments. The direct link to the page on the Hub for assessment and diagnosis is - Accessing an assessment: Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (cwp.nhs.uk)
Autism related links
Page last reviewed: 21 October 2021