Teachers already face the huge task of educating, developing, and enhancing children’s skills and education in schools. However, as all children’s needs should be met, educators need to understand how each of their pupils learn. This is to then create a well-balanced setting for all.
As stated by Verywell Mind, ‘Neurodivergence is the term for when someone’s brain processes, learns, and/or behaves differently from what is considered “typical”. A neurodivergent child may have been diagnosed with a special educational need such as autism, dyslexia, and/or ADHD, for example.
While it may not be possible to completely adapt your educational setting overnight to create an inclusive environment, educators will see a hugely positive difference in all children when a safe and inviting space is provided.
Why is inclusion important?
We all believe that every child has the right to an education, however as UNICEF states, ‘Yet, children with disabilities are often overlooked in policymaking, limiting their access to education and their ability to participate in social, economic and political life.’
They continue, however, with, ‘Inclusive education is the most effective way to give all children a fair chance to go to school, learn and develop the skills they need to thrive.
Inclusive education means all children are in the same classrooms, in the same schools. It means real learning opportunities for groups who have traditionally been excluded- not only children with disabilities, but speakers of minority languages too.
Inclusive systems value the unique contributions students of all backgrounds bring to the classroom and allow diverse groups to grow side by side, to the benefit of all.’
Celebrating Neurodivergence
With one in seven people being identified as neurodivergent, it is important to understand and celebrate the differences in people.
This article from The Education People mentions, ‘While neurodiversity should, of course, be embraced year-round, awareness and celebration weeks can be vital for neurodivergent and neurotypical children and young people alike.
After all, the more we understand each other, the stronger our overall sense of belonging becomes. When one in four children/young people feel they don’t belong in school, this is all the more important.’
What does this mean for the future of education?
An article by Understood meanwhile discusses 4 reasons why having an inclusive classroom will help education in the long term.
The 4 reasons are:
- Tailors teaching for all learners
- Makes differences less ‘different’
- Provides support to all students
- Creates high expectations for all
Furthermore, research suggests that inclusivity will be fundamental in ensuring all children receive the correct level of provision. Universal design for learning will also help support them throughout their whole education.
TTS is excited to have partnered with five knowledgeable and passionate speakers, that will be bringing insight into this topic.
Neurodivergence in Education – how can inclusive environments enhance children’s learning opportunities?
Hear from experts Andrew Whitehouse, Annamarie Hassall, Beccie Hawes and David Daley as they provide a forward-thinking discussion on the future of neurodivergence in education.
