Thomas Howard, autism advocate from Bury St Edmunds, launches petition calling for more neurodiversity inclusion in schools

A disability rights campaigner has called on the Government to make schools more inclusive for neurodivergent pupils.

Thomas Howard, an autism advocate and community champion from Bury St Edmunds, has launched a petition to make neurodiversity training mandatory for all teachers and education staff.

Thomas, who is autistic himself, said too many neurodivergent pupils – including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and similar conditions – are being left behind in school settings because of a lack of understanding and appropriate support.

Last month, Thomas was recognised for his exceptional contribution to neurodiversity awareness with the Personal Achievement Award at the Autism Hero Awards 2025.

He said: “Teachers want to help, but they often lack the training and resources required to support neurodiverse students.

“This petition is about giving educators the tools they need to create classrooms where every child can thrive.

“This is a step towards a fairer future where neurodivergent children are not excluded, misunderstood or left behind, but recognised, supported, and given the opportunity to succeed.”

Thomas was inspired to start the petition after facing challenges in his own education, often struggling to secure the reasonable adjustments he needed despite his best efforts.

He wants to ensure other young people do not face the same barriers he did.

The petition comes as research shows autistic pupils are twice as likely to be excluded from school compared to their peers, a situation many campaigners say is driven by unmet needs and a lack of early support.