Supporting Pupils Who Mask - resource pack

Explore the hidden effort behind masking and discover why some pupils (particularly those that are autistic) may appear calm, compliant and high-achieving at school whilst experiencing significant internal stress, sensory overload and/or exhaustion.

The pack helps staff to look beyond outward behaviour, and to recognise subtle rising of rising overwhelm to create an environment that feels safer for pupils to fully express themselves.

Included in the pack:

1. staff guidance notes
2. energy and masking barometer - 4-level, colour-coded tool
3. Printable pupil check-in cards
4. Private desk slider tool
5. Staff quick reference sheet

Customise the resources to reflect your school’s approach, individual pupil profiles, preferred communication methods and available support arrangements.

Key message: A pupil who appears to be coping may be using enormous amounts of energy to maintain that appearance. Our responsibility is not to reward the mask, but to create environments where pupils can feel safe, access learning, communicate their needs and be their authentic selves.