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​Introducing Mrs. Paula Passey our experienced Autism Leader Practitioner. 
​I have worked at Hunslet Carr for 10 years and have been the Autism Lead Practitioner for 5 years. I am passionate about being involved in all aspects of support for children with autism. I thrive on working with children, families and others in school to remove barriers and improve the outcomes of those with more complex needs. 
What is the role of a lead practitioner?
Our lead practitioner is involved in all aspects of support for children with autism. This may include:
• Being an advocate for children with autism
• Supporting children, families and staff
• Having a secure knowledge of the key areas of difference experienced by children with autism.
• Understanding and being able to respond to the ways in which autism may present a barrier to learning.
• Helping to train and support other staff at Hunslet Carr and being the ‘go to’ person for advice on which resources/ strategies to use.
• Accessing support from outside agencies, where necessary and keeping up to date with relevant training and good practice in Leeds.  


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How autism can affect you and your family
Having an autistic child can put a lot of strain on you and your family.
You might need to spend a lot of time helping your child get the support they need. This can be very stressful and exhausting.
It may be hard to make time for the rest of your family and can affect your relationships with each other.
If you feel you need help, you can get support from lots of places, including the Lead Practitioner in your school
Additional support can be accessed in Advice Sessions with STARS
​For additional professional support STARS run a drop in advice session once a month (term time only). This is currently taking place via telephone consultation and some additional dates have been added to meet demand.
If you would like to request an appointment please contact the STARS Team on starsteam@leeds.gov.uk or 0113 3789792.
The drop-in dates for the Autumn term of 21-22 academic year are:
  • Wednesday 13th October
  • Friday 5th November
  • Wednesday 17th November
  • Friday 3rd December
  • Wednesday 15th December
  • SPRING & SUMMER TERM DATES will be published at a later date.
Parents/carers are welcome to attend the drop in/book telephone appointments.