From the Deputy Principal

Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Last week we acknowledged Neurodiversity Celebration Week (18-24 March), which aims to challenge stereotypes about neurological differences and show that these differences are not better or worse but just different. Neurodiversity refers to the range of differences in individual brain function and behavioural traits, regarded as part of normal variation in the human population. It is a word used to explain the unique ways people's brains work. While everyone's brain develops similarly, no two brains are alike. Being neurodivergent means having a brain that works differently from the average or 'neurotypical' person. 

During Pastoral Care, Senior School students were presented with a PowerPoint presentation featuring information about neurodiversity. They also listened to an interview with award-winning motivational speaker, actor, performer and author, Chloé Hayden. Diagnosed with autism (and ADHD) at the age of 13 and feeling ostracised from society, Chloé started an anonymous blog to share her feelings and to find a community. Today, she reaches millions of followers and over half a billion views, as she fights for a better future for those whose voices have been silenced for too long. She is also one of the world’s first autistic characters, playing Quinni in Netflix’s Heartbreak High. 

Following the presentation, Pastoral Care groups completed a quiz profiling well-known people who are neurodivergent, including Jessica Watson, Cara Delevingne and Kiera Knightly, during which students tackled a series of questions about neurodivergent conditions. 

Many people in our College community experience dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and ADHD.  If we are to be an inclusive community, it is critical that we understand, accept and celebrate neurodiversity. By harnessing the strengths and talents of neurodivergent students, we seek to build their confidence and self-esteem. Every student should be given the opportunity to flourish at school. Any differences, therefore, should be recognised and respected as just another way of being or doing things. 

I encourage families to access the many resources located on the SchoolTV portal, including leading interviews with leading experts.