This guide is designed to support educational settings through the process of creating an AAC policy that is unique to them and the needs of their students and staff. The document outlines practical steps for integrating AAC into daily classroom activities, ensuring that AAC users can participate fully and learn effectively. It also highlights the importance of fostering a supportive culture that values diverse communication methods and promotes understanding and inclusion. 

We created this free online guide, directed by the original Developing AAC Policies in Schools document created in 2001, whilst working alongside and within several education settings. The aim is to pull from and share our recent joined up experience to assist education teams through the process of creating an AAC policy that is unique to them and the needs of their students and staff. The guide addresses key points for effective AAC policies to include:

• Introduction
• Defining AAC
• The need for an AAC policy statement
• The educational context
• Legal considerations in the use of AAC
• Roles and responsibilities
• Ongoing training and development
• Transition
• Funding options
• Conclusion

Each section in this guide has been designed to promote discussion and planning throughout the process of creating your AAC policy whilst providing examples from existing school policies and considerations to explore within your setting.