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.

Historic Great Northern Railway Observation Saloon to enter service at Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway
Skipton's Sam Ashby evicted from Big Brother house just 10 days before final
Community and veterans honour Canadian aircrew at 80th anniversary service
Warnings after confirmation of bird flu in North Yorkshire
Skipton teenager impresses in first F2 stock car season
Plans announced to lift 30mph speed limit at busy Skipton roundabout
Venue in Skipton wins Deliciously Yorkshire award
ELO to Abba, Steeton Male Voice Choir together with Otley Brass Band
Airedale rebuild takes first step with multi-storey car park plans
Details of Skipton Remembrance parade revealed
Skipton boys take home prize after winning Monster trail
Pub sees increase in business after introducing 'Tax-free Monday'
Addingham invites traders for festive Christmas market
Brass band from Skipton appear in Channel 5 drama series finale
Ermysted's and Skipton Girls' High to hold joint Sixth Form Open Evening
New Love Brownies branch to open in Skipton this weekend
Airedale Hospital launch annual Christmas card competition
Council warns man of £38 charge per flag if he puts up any more
PureGym opens Its doors in Skipton Town Centre
Hospital create pumpkin patch thanks to kind donations


