Autism Education Trust (AET) name change
As OCC SENSS and Early Years SEND teams are partners of the Autism Education Trust (AET), we would like to draw attention a change of name from AET to Neuroinclusive Education Network (NEN), now part of the National Autistic Society.
Why the change?
Educators support pupils with diverse neurodivergent profiles, including autism. The NEN reflects this, bringing a broader perspective while retaining the trusted frameworks and principles that have shaped inclusive practice in England and Wales since 2007.
They are developing a wider commitment to leading on what ‘good neuroinclusive education’ looks like, recognising and celebrating the different and diverse ways people think, learn and experience the world.
What’s changing and what’s staying the same
- Name: The Autism Education Trust is now the Neuroinclusive Education Network (NEN) – a name that reflects their broader mission and alignment with the National Autistic Society.
- Training Programme: The Professional Development Programme becomes the Inclusive Practice Development Programme – retaining autism-specialist content while introducing wider neuroinclusive themes.
- Expertise: Autism remains at the core of their evidence-based approach, strengthened by an inclusive perspective that supports all neurodivergent learners.
- Network: The NEN is growing, connecting more professionals and promoting a culture of shared learning and continuous improvement that drives neuroinclusive education forward.
Looking ahead
As part of the National Autistic Society, the NEN will continue to co-produce new training resources with people with lived experience, educators and experts. Future developments will expand content to include other neurodivergent profiles, supporting professionals to apply best whole-school inclusive practice.
Booking NEN Training
School Age enquiries
Please speak to your SENSS C&I Advisory Teacher.
Early Years enquiries
Please visit Training & Events or email
EarlyYearsSENDteam@oxfordshire.gov.uk
For enquiries about ‘Early Years Making Sense of Autism’, a 2 hour awareness raising session that can potentially be delivered for your school or setting.