University to host lecture from world-leading autism speakers

Renowned speakers on Autism, Professor Rita Jordan OBE and Ros Blackburn, will host a lecture and a question and answer session at the University of Worcester later this month.

The lecture is aimed at university students, staff and community members who are interested in special needs education, or are current or future practitioners within the field.

Professor Jordan (pictured) – a Professor of Autism Studies at the University of Birmingham – has served on national and international task forces to review evidence and offer advice in relation to autism. She is a former consultant to the Expert Committee on Autism for the Council for Europe, and was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Autistic Society in 2013.

Ms Blackburn is a much-respected speaker who is credited with breaking down misconceptions about the condition by discussing her own, severe autism in a candid, informative and humorous way.

Rebecca Foster, Course Leader for Physical Education at the University of Worcester, explains: “We are looking forward to welcoming these two insightful speakers to the University.

“The University of Worcester is renowned for its focus on inclusion, which spans across several departments. This session will give students who are interested in pursuing a career working alongside people with disabilities and special educational needs the chance to expand their knowledge on a number of related topics.

“These include different perspectives on autism; the value of physical activity and how to use this as a tool to engage with people with autism; and the wider implications for people with autism in education and the community.”

The event will take place at the University’s St John’s Campus on April 23, between 2.30pm and 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend, but people are asked to book their place beforehand by emailing Rebecca Foster at [email protected].