Adaptive strategies for a neurodiverse friendly classroom

Course introduction

It is now widely recognised that 1 in 7 children are neurodivergent. Throughout the UK in recent years, there has been an increased awareness and focus on the needs of neurodivergent children and young people in mainstream schools, for example, the NISS project in Scotland, the PINS project and the proposed SEND reforms in England. The central question is, how do we adapt our classroom practice to meet the varying needs in a neurodiverse classroom? This course will explore this question and present a range of evidence-based strategies and approaches.

What we will cover throughout the day

• Develop a clear understanding of neurodivergence, including key features, co-occurring needs and variations in presentation.

• Identify how neurodivergence affects cognition, behaviour, communication and emotional regulation in the classroom.

• Adapt classroom environments and lesson design to reduce barriers and support diverse learners.

• Apply practical, evidence-based strategies to support executive functioning, communication, literacy and wellbeing.

• Confidently select and adapt approaches to meet the needs of neurodivergent pupils.

Target audience

Aimed at for teachers, educators and allied health professionals who wishes to develop their knowledge and understanding. Also ideal for school-based staff including teachers, head teachers, deputy headteacher, SENCo/ALNCo special education teacher, classroom assistant, educational psychologists, school support staff and pastoral care staff and pastoral lead teacher. As well as multidisciplinary teams i.e. looked after children, foster care, adoption agencies, social services.

Trainers for this course

Colin Foley

Colin Foley is an internationally renowned speaker and training consultant, specialising in education and neurodiversity for employers, in private sector business, public services, health... and social care services since 2015. Colin 25 years experience in the education sector, in senior leadership, teacher training and as Director of College, have gained him a reputation as a major influence and pioneer in the emerging paradigm of neurodiversity in education. Working extensively in international and independent schools and academies across the UK, Colin provides dynamic bespoke training, evidence- based strategies and demonstrations of best practice. Colin is a regular speaker at the TES Education Show, the Welsh Education Show and conferences for all sectors of industry and public services. Colin has collaborated with a wide range of industries in the UK and internationally, including Astra Zeneca, Barclays Bank, Marks & Spencer, McQuarrie Bank, Ministry of Defence, NHS, London Metropolitan Police, Crown Estates, Mubadala Hedge Fund, UK Border Force, The British Horse Society, The Football Association and Premiership Teams such as Liverpool and Chelsea FC, Bakkavor Foods International, Crown Estates and the Ministry of Defence. Colin has also developed training for numerous Third Sector organisations including the Royal Voluntary Service, ADHD Foundation, St James Place, The Children’s Society and Action for Children. Read more

See what others have to say about us

The energy and humour Colin brought to his presentation, alongside the wealth of facts, anecdotes, understanding, and care, were deeply appreciated by everyone who attended yesterday. The success of the conference was due in no small part to your ability to engage and motivate the participants. (C Myrie, Curriculum and Equalities Adviser, Education Advisory Service Wandsworth)

Our staff and parents have sent an overwhelming amount of positive feedback to me already, and have praised how much you know, and how much you advocate for neurodiverse children. We all learnt so much from you - I know for a fact that our teachers will put into place many of the strategies and thought you put forward. (H Morris, Head of Learning Support. Thomas’s School Kensington London)

Thank you, Colin, for a fantastic session before the Easter break. I have had very positive feedback from staff and we would like to now build on the momentum. (Anna Nottage, SENDCO, Mid Essex Co-operative Academy)

About the venue

Stay at home, get comfortable and enjoy our live interactive course via Zoom! You’ll receive the link a few days before the course date so you can get prepared (and excited) ahead of time.

Handy course logistics

• The course will run via Zoom from 9:30 am – 3:00 pm, however, the trainer will be available 15 minutes before and after the course times to answer any questions.
• You’ll receive mid-morning, lunch and afternoon breaks to re-energise.
• This course is designed to be interactive and inclusive. We welcome questions and discussions throughout and we want you to be comfortable and stress-free no matter where you join us from!
• Your course handouts will be emailed to you on the morning of the course.
• Additional links and information will be emailed to you before and during the course.
• This course is also available as an in-house / INSET training session at your school. Contact us for details.
• Please Note – the cost is per person
• Please note – the early bird rate of £185+ VAT ends 28 days prior to the course date, after this the standard rate of £215+VAT will be charged.