The main objective of NARRATE was to provide a comprehensive training pathway to addresse two key aspects of the work of VET professionals with PoAS: supporting PoAS on their way to employment in their organisations (e.g. VET institution) and in-company (at a workplace). This is done by two training programmes: NARRATE In-House Training and NARRATE In-Company Training. The former equippes professionals to support PoAS in entering the workforce, while the latter prepares them to engage with and assist in companies. Both programmes are based on three pillars: - Training syllabus containing a theoretical framework and modules - Resource kit containing exercises and skills cards - Personal action plan providing VET professionals with guidelines on how to apply the syllabus and resource kit in their specific work contexts. An online learning platform (OLP) was created to host the learning content, which is accessible via desktop, tablet and mobile. As a result, it should also support: - Promoting inclusion and diversity by viewing PoAS as individuals with an alternative way of being. - Contributing to innovation and flexibility in VET by introducing new mindsets and methods for working with PoAS and other groups.
The project idea emerged from the growing need among vocational education and training (VET) professionals to improve support services for Persons on the Autism Spectrum (PoAS) towards employment. Although PoAS often bring valuable qualities such as reliability, focus and attention to detail, they continue to face high unemployment and social exclusion. While VET aims to prepare individuals for the labour market, it often lacks tools to effectively support PoAS and companies willing to employ them. This is reinforced by a dominant narrative framing autism as a neurobiological disorder, focusing on deficits rather than strengths. The NARRATE project aimed to reframe this perspective. Using a narrative approach that views autism as an alternative way of being, the project developed training programmes for professionals working with PoAS. The NARRATE training programs highlight PoAS' strengths and provide strategies to foster inclusive employment, supporting professionals in guiding PoAS into the labour market and companies in integrating them into their work environments.