AbstractThe results of postal surveys of the use of sign languages and symbol systems by schools catering for autistic and aphasic children are described. Up to 40 schools and units were surveyed in the four surveys between 1978 and 1982. The surveys showed that the majority of schools and units were using some form of augmentative system. The use of sign language predominated in all types of school. British Sign Language, used in English word order and with accompanying speech, was favoured by schools and units catering for autistic pupils. The Paget Gorman Sign System was favoured by schools teaching aphasic pupils. Symbol systems were employed by only a minority of schools. Programmes were variable in size. Data on outcome was not collected regularly but suggested highly variable achievement levels amongst autistic children and more general success with aphasic pupils. The data are discussed within the context of the overall use of sign language and symbol systems in the U.K.