It seems certain that there will be an increased focus on Adaptive teaching methods within the coming SEND legislation. I believe that the needs of educators has largely moved on from understanding neurodivergent conditions to the practical implementation of successful strategies to ensure all learners achieve together in one classroom. Therefore, this presentation will explore practical ideas for supporting the range of neurodivergent needs within the same class. Starting with sensory and attentional environments and lesson planning and design, the session will also explore the key themes to consider- Attentional regulation, Engagement, Memory and Executive functioning support. The session will offer practical and evidence based ideas and activities to support neurodivergent learners in these areas.  

Target audience: SENCO’s / Leaders, Practitioners / Support staff, Parents & Carers, Local Authority Staff

Target Key Stage: All key stages

Settings Targeted: Nursery / pre-school / childminder, School, Alternative provision, FE / Higher education
SEND Focus: ADHD AuDHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's syndrome
Related Policy: Teacher's Standards, SEND Code of Practice, Equality Act.
Audience Stage: Level 1-3
Learning outcomes: 

• To be more informed about the challenges of neurodivergent learners.
• To consider the impact of physical environment of the learning space and how it can be adapted.
• To consider how neurodivergent learners can be supported through lesson planning and design, with practical strategies to support.
• To consider how the central themes of Attention, Memory, Executive function and Engagement impact neurodivergent learners, supported with practical strategies to support.