Recognising the key signs of autism will be easier thanks to a new Wandsworth Council education programme.

The programme called Every school autism friendly' will be rolled out across 150 schools in the borough. It will highlight the key characteristics of autism and help staff understand the communication difficulties children with autism have.

Special techniques for improving pupils' concentration and learning in the classroom will also be part of the programme.

Senior educational psychologist Henrietta Ogbonna said: "Every teacher today can expect to have a child with autism in their class at some time.

"We are looking at the support children need throughout the school day whether in the classroom or the playground. We can help teachers adapt to individual learning styles so that children can follow instructions and organise their work."

This new school initiative comes as recent research, published in The Lancet medical journal, shows autism could affect one in 100 children in Britain.

For more information about the education programme visit: wandsworth.gov.uk/autismfriendly.