Is there an autism class in your school? What is the name of the class? The language used by the school community to talk about neurodiversity, autism, and the class is very important. In Gaelscoil Bhaile Brigín, the autism class is called An Cuan, Scoil Oilibhéir has Rang na Réaltaí and the class in Coláiste Ghlór na Mara is called Rang Lir.

In various guidelines and advice papers issued by Neurodiversity Ireland, AsIAm, and the National Disability Authority, it is recommended that the terms “Unit”, “Autism Unit” or “Autism Spectrum Disorder unit” are not used and that it is much better to use “autism class”. It is explained that “unit” often indicates a medical or clinical setting. Below are some useful resources if further guidance is needed on inclusive language.

NDA Advice Paper on Disability Language and Terminology

Advice from AsIAm: Language and Images of Autism

Language Guide from AsIAm: Talking about Autism

Language Guide from Neurodiversity Ireland: Embracing the Language of Neurodiversity