Autism acceptance is more than awareness: A conversation that matters

Written by Hollie McFarlane,

Assistant Head of Teaching & Learning – Inclusion and SEND.

Each April, conversations around autism grow louder, but at Tute Education, we believe they also need to go deeper. Autism acceptance goes beyond simply being aware of differences; it’s about valuing neurodivergence, creating inclusive environments, and amplifying voices that too often go unheard. 

That’s why we’ve created this video series: real conversations with passionate educators who are committed to making education better for autistic students. It’s about shifting the focus from labels and limitations to understanding, empathy, and action.

Who’s talking?

This series features conversations with two of Tute’s most passionate voices for inclusion: 

Hollie McFarlane

Assistant Head of Teaching and Learning: Inclusion and SEND 

Liz Rumsey

Teacher of Primary and SEND Co-ordinator

Together, they reflect on the realities, challenges, and moments of joy that come with teaching autistic students, and what true inclusion looks like in practice.

Highlights from the series

💬 “Everybody is different and it’s embracing everybody’s individuality, but recognising that there may be some differences that are slightly more different from neurotypical students” – Liz

💬 “I’ve learnt so much about Minecraft and things like that over the past couple of years honestly, to support — well to support all the pupils. But yeah, it is, you’re so right it’s about finding what the pupils enjoy and honing in on that interest.” – Hollie

💬 “I phoned his mum… and said, ‘Would it be okay if I recorded this?’ because he was talking so freely to me… I set my phone up and we just had a lovely conversation… and I asked him loads of questions about his diagnosis, how he was feeling… and it was just so powerful—what he was saying, and to hear it from his point of view as well… What I did was, I used that video then as some staff training… so that the teachers were aware, and it was coming out of this pupil’s mouth—how he was feeling and everything… It was like a moment of realisation: this is what’s happening.” – Hollie

💬 “Without our differences—well, d’know, I think life would be incredibly boring, wouldn’t it? What would we do?” – Liz

Stories that stay with us

In the final video, Liz  shares a story about a student who had a breakthrough moment and lit up when given space to embrace their strengths.

Hollie reflects on the impact of one student who challenged her assumptions and reminded her that listening is the most powerful teaching tool we have.

These stories are a reminder that inclusion isn’t just a strategy – it’s a human responsibility.

🎥 Watch the full video series

We’ve compiled the short-form clips into one full-length video so you can experience the full conversation in one place.

📣 Join the conversation

Throughout Autism Acceptance Month, we’ll be sharing clips from this series on social media. Follow us, share your thoughts, and help us spread the message that acceptance starts with understanding.