Autism spectrum workshops aim to upskill education and health professionals
Altogether Autism will run a series of workshops to upskill education and health professionals working with those on the
autism spectrum this November.
The Prism Professional Development workshops, to be held in Christchurch on 23 November, Wellington on 24 November and
Auckland on 25 November, are targeted at educators, health professionals and any other professionals who interact with
people on the autism spectrum. Workshop content will include up-to-date information on autism, as well as best-practice
strategies and approaches for supporting people on the spectrum.
Catherine Trezona, Altogether Autism National Manager, says: “We want to share our evidence-based knowledge of autism
with key people, such as educators and health professionals. The one-day workshops are designed to give participants
increased confidence to interact in positive ways with people on the spectrum and their families.”
Ms Trezona says that the workshops will provide a safe and supportive environment for people to ask questions about
autism.
“We know there’s a lot of information about autism available online but this is not all reliable. Our workshops – like
our national information service – provide trusted information and strategies to generate positive outcomes for
individuals and families living with autism in New Zealand.”
The workshops will be led by specialist facilitators, and participants will be provided with a comprehensive workbook
and ongoing access to tailor-made information. In addition, every participant will be invited to join a virtual forum
for professionals at the end of the workshop.
Altogether Autism is a free, nationwide autism spectrum disorder information and advisory service funded by the Ministry
of Health. The Altogether Autism team have specialist training and knowledge in autism and have evidence-based and
up-to-date sources for information including lived experience. Altogether Autism is a service provided as a partnership
between the charitable trusts Life Unlimited and Parent to Parent New Zealand.
To book a place on a Prism Professional Development workshop call 0800 273 463 or visit www.altogetherautism.org.nz/prism-professional-development. The course costs $230 including GST and includes morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.
ENDS