What’s in a label? Developing knowledge of your neurodivergent community in school and college.

Course introduction

This course provides participants with a deeper knowledge as well as practical ways to support children and young people in school and college who are identified as neurodivergent. During the day participants will develop their understanding of Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) such as Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD, Autism, Sensory processing, Anxiety and Communication. Time will also be spent looking at how we can address the fact that due to social expectations and a lack of support and understanding, neurodivergent pupils may be particularly susceptible to mental health problems. 

Using this knowledge, we will take a closer look at what resources, support and interventions are available and how these can be successfully implemented. There will also be opportunities to discuss specific challenges with the trainer and network with others. 

What we will cover throughout the day

• Gain an understanding of neurodiversity, neurodivergent and the different SpLDs;

• Discuss latest evidence-based research;

• Understand how to produce effective profiles for children/young people;

• Learn which strategies would benefit which pupil/student;

• Generate an awareness of communication and sensory needs

• Understand the barriers of various conditions and the impact they may have on learning;

• Develop strategies around frustration and anxiety;

• Learn how to support children/young people’s mental health

• Implement effective ways to promote inclusivity throughout schools/colleges

• Look at strategies and techniques to address the barriers and modify the impact.

Target audience

Aimed at for teachers, educators and allied health professionals who wishes to develop their knowledge and understanding around Neurodiversity. Also ideal for school-based staff including teachers, head teachers, deputy headteacher, SENCO, 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

Karen Ferguson

BAEd QTS

Karen started teaching science at a mainstream secondary school in 2000, but moved into the SEND environment, working with children and parents to help them overcome their disabilities to... give them the skills to achieve their full potential. The majority of her training was on the job, which showed the need for training in this area.

She was appointed as a Specialist Leader in Education for Autism and this allowed her to disseminate good practice and deliver training in the field of SEND. Karen offers various SEND and condition specific training, including ASC, ADHD and Dyslexia. She has continued her own professional development throughout the years including a Masters in Education, Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism and PDA formal qualifications. She is currently working towards her Doctorate in Education.

Karen believes in a better understanding of SEND and complex needs can be achieved through information sharing and she is committed to ensure that education is developed and delivered to as many people as possible.Read more

See what others have to say about us

“Today I’ve have the great opportunity to be part of this training, it’s fantastic, the information is brilliant and have opened my eyes to a lot of support I can give to a child and young person x.”

“Really enjoying the course! I have been desperate for some training in general learning difficulties, the differences each present and how to help children with them so this course has been spot on so far. Looking forward to the afternoon part too! Now to enjoy my M&S treat lunch from NSM!”

“Highly recommend course, I have learnt a lot of knowledge of how I can support additional learning students, loving it.”

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 pack includes handouts, an M&S voucher for food, a snack, a pen and a notepad – we’ll send this to you before the day. Please note this is only for UK-based participants, international attendees will receive the pack via email.
• 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.