The Rise in Autism Diagnoses: What the Numbers Show
Every year, governments across the UK release detailed school census data, offering insights into the number of children needing Additional Support Needs (ASN). Today, let’s focus on the Scottish School Census, which I have tracked since 2003.
Scottish School Census Data from 2003 to 2023. Data Source: https://www.gov.scot/publications/pupil-census-supplementary-statistics/ ASD: Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Diagnoses Are Increasing
The numbers are clear: autism diagnoses among schoolchildren in Scotland have been rising steadily over the years. As of December 2023, autism affects 4.3% of all children in Scottish schools—that’s 1 in 23.8 children. For boys, the rate is even higher, at 1 in 16.4. These figures include children in primary, secondary, mainstream, and special education schools.
More Than Autism: A Growing Range of Needs
Beyond autism, many children experience challenges that may not have a formal diagnosis but still require support. Since 2008, UK governments have been counting children with a range of conditions linked to neurodiversity. These include:
Language and Speech Disorders: 2.8% of children
Social, Emotional, and Behavioural Difficulties: 8.9% of children
Communication Support Needs: 2% of children
Learning Disabilities: 1.6% of children
Dyslexia: 4.4% of children
Mental Health Issues: 1.5% of children
Since 2008, UK governments are counting the number of children presenting with a range difficulties all characteristic of the wider Neurodiverse group of children. Data Source: https://www.gov.scot/publications/pupil-census-supplementary-statistics/
A High Percentage of Children with ASN
In 2023, over 40% of secondary school children and 30% of primary school children in Scotland were identified as having Additional Support Needs. This includes:
Learning disabilities (4.5%)
Moderate learning disability (12.1%)
Other specific learning difficulty (e.g. numeric) (10.5%)
Dyslexia (11.9%)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (11.7%)
Social, emotional, and behavioural difficulties (24.4%)
Communication Support Needs (5.3%)
Language or speech disorders (7.6%)
Physical health issues (6.8%)
Mental health concerns (4.2%)
Note: Percentages are given in relation to the total number of ASN children.
Challenges for Teachers
A significant 93% of children with ASN are educated in mainstream classrooms, which can make it challenging for teachers to meet their diverse needs.
What Does This Mean?
These figures show that the number of children requiring additional support is steadily rising, not just for autism but across a broad range of conditions. While the reasons behind this trend require deeper exploration, what’s clear is that more children—and their teachers—need support.
If you’d like to learn more about autism or neurodiverse conditions, or if you’re seeking support, please visit www.thelauristoncentre.co.uk. You’re also welcome to book a call with us to discuss how we can help.
