On 16th July, Skipton and Ripon MP, Julian Smith called on the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, to commit to introducing mandatory autism and neurodiversity training for all teachers and school staff
This follows the upcoming Special Educational Needs (SEN) Bill.
You can watch the full video of Smith's question and Starmer's response:
Today at #PMQs I urged @Keir_Starmer to include mandatory autism and neurodiversity training for all teachers in the upcoming SEN Bill.
— Julian Smith (@JulianSmithUK) July 16, 2025
Understanding the needs of autistic children is essential to fixing our SEND system. #SEND #AutismAwareness #Neurodiversity @Autism… pic.twitter.com/Gb8GV9LCFc
Speaking in the House of Commons, Julian said:
“A much better understanding of the particular needs of autistic and neurodiverse children is vital to expand capacity in mainstream education for SEN pupils”
”Can I urge him, as he looks at this bill over the summer, to introduce mandatory training for all teachers and all staff on autism and neurodiversity?”
In response, Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the failures of the current system faced by children with special educational needs and committed to working with MPs across the House of Commons to deliver reform.
This intervention is the latest in Julian’s long-standing campaign to improve support for autistic children and their families.
He has previously raised the issue with both the Secretary of State for Education and through his work on the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill.

Accessibility boost as new changing places toilet opens in Malham
Tourist tax would be 'total game changer', says Mayor
Skipton Charity golf day to be held for 2025 Pride of Britain winner
North Yorkshire taxi drivers call for fare increase to offset Iran War fuel increases
Devolution will fail if decisions are York-centric, say angry North Yorkshire councillors
Craven Lawn Tennis Club to open grounds for fundraising weekend
Tory councillor used photo of tragedy which claimed the lives of 116 children to make point on social media
Airedale Hospital's cancer team launch radiotherapy website
Skipton MP raises concerns over changes to 580 bus service
Lothersdale and Glusburn students to climb Yorkshire Three Peaks for Airedale Hospital
Police investigate assault in Skipton
Glusburn Community & Arts Centre calls for funds to keep the lights on
Northern passengers reminded some train times will change from Sunday
Jumble sale to be held in aid of woman's cancer journey
Thornton Hall Country Park Continues to Grow with New Team Members
Skipton Boxing Club nominated for 'Local Hero' award
Skipton Beer Festival shares 2026 lineup
Clubberthon raises over £7,000 for hospice charity
Your Skipton collaborates with Skipton BID for first visual podcast
Skipton BID to host first ever launch event for Skipton Business Awards 2026


