AUTISM INCLUSION TEACHER

I just wanted to take this opportunity to let you know some of the exciting things that are happening at HEPS in the neurodivergent space.     

In Term 3 I was fortunate to attend the state Autism Inclusion Teacher Network training at Morphettville racecourse. It was really exciting to see that there is a big shift to having amazing neurodivergent individuals leading the trainings. This lived experience gives such insight and knowledge; for me, it has enabled me to gain a greater understanding and insight of not only different neurotypes but ideas around how we can tweak educational practice to be more authentic in inclusion. Another highlight was meeting Sandhya Menon, author of the Brain Forest and The Rainbow Brain (pictures below – left myself and Sandhya; Sandhya and Kate, who is a stunning OT and AIT network lead; Nell Harris) and the truly talented Nell Harris, author of My Brain is a Race. Connecting with these inspirational women and listening to their knowledge was a standout moment of my year.

Also, how exciting is it to have Autism Inclusion Teacher trials in 9 government Secondary schools starting at the beginning of 2025. https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/more-support-for-children-with-autism I think having AITs who directly support transitions will be a big step in the right direction. I’m looking forward to seeing how these 9 sites roll this out and the benefits it has for our neurodivergent young people.

At the end of Term 3 we had our first free community session, Talking ND with Mark LeMessieur & Will. This was such an amazing presentation and one which brought everyone together. We are now starting to gear up our second free community session with Madhavi Nawana-Parker on Resilience, Wellbeing & Neurodivergence. I’ve been fortunate to hear Madhavi speak multiple times and can’t recommend her highly enough… I hope to see many of you there…

I have also been working on a resource for our educators that I hope will help to assist in increasing all our knowledge on neurodivergence and neuro-affirming practice. This resource has been designed so that our educators and young people can learn together about the diversity of our brains, different neuro-types and inclusive practices that we can all use. HEPS is extremely fortunate to have such passionate staff who are always trying to acquire knowledge to better their practice and insure authentic inclusion. 

Here are some examples – you can try the QR codes to access the clips… I hope you enjoy…

Cass Humphrey

HEPS Autism Inclusion Teacher

Cassie.Humphrey574@schools.sa.edu.au