Skipton MP advocates for heightened focus on PDA awareness in schools

Calls for improved teacher training to support children with autism profiles

Author: Kathy GreenPublished 20th Sep 2026

The MP for Skipton has urged the Government to increase Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) awareness in schools and improve teacher training to better cater to the needs of children with autism profiles.

During a recent Education Questions session in the House of Commons Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith emphasised the necessity for school staff to understand the varied autism profiles, including PDA, to effectively engage children with diverse educational needs.

He sought reassurances that the Government's strategy for supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities is informed by the independent prevalence review.

Georgia Gould MP, Minister for School Standards, confirmed efforts with the review, acknowledging concerns about PDA and outlining plans for enhanced teacher training and access to specialist school support services.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.