Early Years and Teaching students at the Clapham campus, Lambeth College, recently took part in an extraordinary learning opportunity that brought empathy and understanding to life. The Autism Reality Experience Bus, hosted by Training2Care, visited the campus to provide an immersive insight into what life may feel like for someone with autism.

This hands-on experience aimed to help students build a deeper understanding of autism and develop the skills needed to effectively support children and young people in education. Before entering the bus, participants were equipped with gloves, glasses and headphones designed to recreate some of the sensory challenges that individuals with autism may face in their daily lives.

Once inside, students took part in a simulation that altered their perception of the world around them. Sounds, lights and textures were carefully designed to reflect how sensory processing differences can impact the way a person experiences their environment.

The impact of the session was profound. Many students reflected on how it had changed their perspective, helping them appreciate the importance of patience, understanding and adaptability when supporting children with autism in educational settings.

This training proved invaluable in raising awareness about autism, offering future educators a meaningful and memorable experience that will undoubtedly influence their practice.

South Bank Colleges believes that experiences like this help shape compassionate, inclusive and well-prepared professionals!