In recognition of Neurodiversity Week, we sat down with Paula Mason (Head of Learning Support) and Haley Rogers (SEND Mentor) to discuss why CLC feels it’s important to recognise and understand neurodiversity across College, and the value of raising awareness.
Throughout this episode, Paula and Haley highlight how neurodiversity should not be seen as a deficit or disorder, and instead viewed as a spectrum of alternative thinking styles that should be celebrated and supported.
We all experience day-to-day life differently and have executive function skills. These are the cognitive processes that allow us to manage day-to-day tasks and help with working memory, flexible thinking, managing impulses and self-regulation. They also help us stay focused, plan and be on time and organised.
“You don’t have to have a label to want to improve your executive function skills…we all have them. You can be any type of learner. It’s got nothing to do with your underlying ability. All of us of all ages can work on our executive function skills.” – Paula Mason
At Cheltenham Ladies’ College, we celebrate diverse minds and believe we have a commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment.
“Having a better understanding of neurodiversity promotes better inclusion in our community.” – Haley Rogers
We recognise it’s important for students to foster an understanding of neurodiversity, alongside helping them to understand their minds, so we can create pathways of support for them with the help of our skilled Learning Support staff.
“We empower students to embrace how their brains work and work with them instead of fighting against it” – Haley Rogers