Training Packages - Middletown Centre For Autism

Event summary

Date

Monday 1 Dec 2025

Start Time

15:00

End Time

17:00

Cedar Lodge School, Belfast, Antrim

Booking closes

Tuesday 2 Dec 2025 12am

Autism and Communication: Autistic Children and Young People with High Care and Education Needs
This session explores the differences in neurotypical versus autistic communication styles. It provides delegates with an understanding of how to appreciate communication differences and adapt their communication style to better support autistic children and young people at home and school.

Participants will:
Explore current relevant theories related to communication differences.
Develop an understanding of their own communication preferences and how these might hinder or support the autistic communicator.
Explore a range of supportive practices in receptive, understanding, and expressive communication

Location

Cedar Lodge School
24 Lansdowne Park North
Belfast
Antrim
BT15 4AE
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Gemma O'Neill

Gemma O'Neill is an Autism Trainer/Advisor at Middletown Centre for Autism, bringing over 20 years of experience in education, including her role as a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO). In her career, Gemma has worked as a Specialist Teacher at Middletown Centre, supporting autistic children and young people across various educational settings, including Preschools, mainstream Primary and Post Primary schools, autism classes in mainstream environments, and Special Schools. Gemma also brings considerable experience in developing and delivering home programmes for autistic children, working closely with families to foster learning and development.
Gemma holds a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Queen’s University, Belfast. Her areas of expertise include curriculum development, classroom supports, differentiation techniques and transitions.