We are delighted that you will be joining us for our Better than 52: Autism Symposium at New College Lanarkshire’s Coatbridge Campus on Friday 30 October 2026.

We want everyone attending to feel welcome and supported. To help you plan your visit and know what to expect, please find the key event, travel and arrival information below.

Event details

• Date: Friday 30 October 2026
• Venue: New College Lanarkshire – Coatbridge Campus
• Arrival and registration: From 9:30am
• Symposium starts: 10:00am
• Lunch: 12:05pm
• Afternoon workshops: From 12:45pm
• Event finishes: Approximately 3:00pm

Transport and parking
On-campus parking will be available on the day. We recommend allowing extra time for your arrival, as parking may be busy.

Some on-street parking is also available near the campus. If using these spaces, please be mindful of local residents and avoid obstructing driveways.

Travelling by train
The closest train station is Coatdyke, approximately a 10-minute walk from the campus through Dunbeth Park. Trains run regularly, with direct connections to Glasgow city centre and Edinburgh.

What to expect on the day
The symposium will feature keynote speakers and contributions from New College Lanarkshire, Scottish Autism, professionals and autistic advocates. Sessions will explore topics including inclusive education, health and wellbeing, criminal justice and employment.

The day will include presentations, a panel discussion, lunch and opportunities for shared learning and discussion.

Registration opens at 9:30am. On arrival, please register before making your way to the event space. Our team will be available to welcome you and help direct you.

Afternoon workshops
During the afternoon, you will attend the workshop you selected when registering for the event. Workshops begin at 12:45pm, followed by a return to the main auditorium at 1:30pm for refreshments and the remaining programme.

The four workshops are as follows:

1. Autism and Criminal Justice System: Barriers to Solutions – Zofia Bukiel.
2. Wellbeing: The Benefits of Creative Peer Groups – Glyn Thomson.
3. Language – Craig Garden and Aimee Fletcher.
4. Employment Gap: Rethinking Approaches to Inclusive Employment – Joanna Panese.

Refreshments and lunch
A morning break, lunch and afternoon refreshments are included in the programme. Lunch is scheduled for 12:05pm.

Accessibility and wellbeing
We want the symposium to be as welcoming and comfortable as possible for everyone attending.

• Quiet space: A quiet space will be available if you need some time away from the main event environment.
• Taking breaks: You are welcome to step out of sessions and return when you feel ready. Please take breaks whenever you need them.
• Accessibility: If you have requested assistance with access or seating, our team has made the necessary arrangements and will be on hand to help.

We are very much looking forward to welcoming you to the Autism Symposium for a day of shared learning, discussion and collaboration.

If you have any questions about the venue, your arrival or what to expect on the day, please do not hesitate to get in touch.