# What reasonable adjustments can schools make for autistic pupils?

> The Equality Act duty, practical examples for primary and secondary school, uniform and exams, and how to ask for them.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/reasonable-adjustments-autism-school
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** Under the Equality Act 2010, schools have a duty to make reasonable adjustments so disabled pupils, including many autistic pupils, aren't put at a substantial disadvantage. Adjustments for autistic pupils often include visual timetables, warnings before changes, a quiet space, flexible uniform for sensory needs, movement breaks and exam access arrangements.

**Key takeaways**
- Schools must make **reasonable adjustments** under the **Equality Act 2010**.
- The aim: pupils aren't put at a **substantial disadvantage**.
- Common adjustments: **visual supports, quiet spaces, uniform flexibility, breaks**.
- **Ask in writing** and agree how adjustments will be reviewed.

## What is the duty?

The Equality Act 2010 requires schools to make reasonable adjustments for disabled pupils, including providing auxiliary aids and services, so they aren't put at a substantial disadvantage compared with other pupils.[1] The SEND Code of Practice sets out how this links with SEN support.[2]

## What adjustments help autistic pupils?

| Area | Primary | Secondary |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Predictability | Visual timetable, now-and-next board | Personal timetable, warnings about cover teachers |
| Transitions | Leaving class a few minutes early | Moving between lessons before the corridors fill |
| Sensory | Ear defenders, a quiet corner | A calm room pass, seating away from noise |
| Uniform | Tagless or soft alternatives | Alternatives to ties, blazers or certain fabrics |
| Lunch and break | A quieter space to eat | Access to a club or library at lunch |
| Exams | Rest breaks, separate room | Access arrangements such as a separate room or extra time, where eligible |

Statutory guidance on school uniform costs also expects schools to consider pupils' needs when setting uniform policy.[3]

## How do I ask for adjustments?

1. **Write to the SENCO or head teacher** describing the barrier, with examples.
2. **Suggest specific adjustments** that help at home or have helped before.
3. **Agree how they'll be shared** with all staff, including supply teachers.
4. **Set a review date.**

**One-page profile.** A short profile, in the pupil's words, is a simple way to make sure every adult knows the agreed adjustments.

**Get advice if....** the school refuses reasonable adjustments or your child is excluded. Your local SENDIASS and IPSEA give free advice.

Free printable: [Free printable: classroom pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/classroom-pack.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] List the three biggest barriers in the school day
- [ ] Suggest one adjustment for each
- [ ] Agree a review date with the SENCO

## Common questions

### Is autism a disability under the Equality Act?

Many autistic people meet the Equality Act definition of disability: a physical or mental impairment with a substantial and long-term adverse effect on day-to-day activities. It depends on the individual.

### Can school uniform be adjusted?

Yes, as a reasonable adjustment where a pupil's sensory needs make parts of the uniform hard to wear, such as tagless items or alternatives to ties or certain fabrics.

### Does a pupil need a diagnosis for adjustments?

The duty relates to disability, not diagnosis. Many schools also make adjustments as part of good SEN support without a formal diagnosis.

## Sources

1. Legislation.gov.uk: Equality Act 2010. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents
2. GOV.UK: SEND code of practice, 0 to 25 years. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25
3. GOV.UK: Cost of school uniforms, statutory guidance. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cost-of-school-uniforms

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.