The Ladies’ College is marking Neurodiversity Celebration Week with a range of activities designed to strengthen the work already being done to celebrate differences, deepen understanding and encourage students to share learning with their peers.
Throughout the week, pupils across the College have taken part in discussions, collaborative projects and assemblies focused on recognising and valuing different ways of thinking and learning. By focusing on peer-led activities, students have had the opportunity to learn from one another and reflect on the strengths that diversity brings to the school community.
Students from Remove through to Upper Sixth worked with pupils from Melrose and Pre-School as part of a series of joint activities celebrating neurodiversity. These included reading stories together, creating posters and bookmarks and taking part in question-and-answer sessions where students shared their experiences and perspectives.
The support extends to the staff and parents. This week, staff have had sessions delivered to them by Hilary Greening and Dr Arthur Pearce about ADHD, dyslexia and autism. Students and parents have also had access to a series of webinars to further their knowledge.
Within the Senior School, students also supported their tutor groups by sharing practical learning strategies that help them study and organise their work effectively. These sessions aim to encourage open conversations about learning differences and provide useful techniques that benefit all students.
Mrs Nicola Ingrouille, Head of Lower School and Middle School, Head of Learning Support and Designated Safeguarding Person, said: “Noticing patterns and understanding a student’s learning profile is essential if we want children and young people to truly thrive. Observing indicators that may suggest dyslexia, autism, or other learning differences is a gentle but deeply meaningful part of our role as educators.
“It is never about placing children into boxes or asking them to define themselves in ways they are not ready for. Instead, it is about quietly, respectfully, and thoughtfully identifying where support may help, recognising and celebrating their strengths, and offering guidance that enables each student to grow with confidence and dignity.”
Eva Redelinghuys, Head Girl, added: “This week, where we recognise and celebrate neurodiversity in our community, I think it’s important that we reflect on what that truly means. Neurodiversity week reminds me that there is no ‘right’ way for each brain to work, learn, and view the world. Conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia or dyscalculia are simply part of the rich variety that make up our school community. Each perspective adds colour and innovation and individuality to our whole picture.”
Beattie Glynn-Riley, Prefect, said: “As a girl who grew up feeling the world wasn’t built for her, celebrating neurodiversity means celebrating the parts of me that I never used to understand. Celebrating neurodiversity means spreading awareness and education to the wider community, enabling hundreds of children across our island to feel valued and understood by their friends, family, and teachers.”
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is an international initiative that promotes greater awareness and acceptance of neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. The week encourages schools, universities and organisations to recognise the talents and perspectives that neurodivergent individuals bring to their communities.
