First Ever Neurodiversity Week at NHEHS
On March 18th we launched our first ever Neurodiversity Week on the theme of ‘Difference, not Difficulty.’ The week began with a very engaging and informative assembly led by Year 12 Psychology Reps Lollie R and Ishikaa G together with Charlie C, Sophie A and Olivia H, who represented neurodiversity at NHEHS.
There followed a variety of activities and initiatives to help increase awareness around neurodiversity.
In formtime, students were encouraged to write a tip on how to make society and the environment more accessible for all types of brains. These ideas were written on an inclusivity postcard which went on display in the atrium. They also watched clips from ‘Anton’s Film’ and ‘Made by Dyslexia’ – a film featuring a host of celebrities who discuss their experience of living with dyslexia and how can we make society more inclusive. They also enjoyed a Kahoot quiz and took part in discussions around improving inclusion.
On Thursday the whole of Senior School stopped what they were doing at 1pm for a ‘brain break’ to take 10 minutes out to enjoy mindful colouring while listening to calm music.
All week there were displays of neurodiverse books in the library, posters of inspiring figures around school, a neurodiversity notice board and an ‘Inclusivity Board’ in the atrium. We also highlighted useful resources and accessible talks for our whole school community (staff, students and parents), including:
‘Why Everything you Know About Autism is Wrong’ by Dr Jac en Houting
‘Anton’s Film’ from ‘Inside our autistic Minds’ – BBC
‘Pooky – Calming Strategies for the Classroom’
Finally, on Friday at breaktime we enjoyed a wonderful bake sale in support of local Ealing Charity, The London Autism Group.
A big thank you to our Learning Support team and our Reps for a great week!
We are incredibly grateful to the wonderful Learning Support team, Y12 Reps and everyone who supported and donated this fantastic bakesale at @nhehs! We will be using the money raised to support the running of our Ealing community cafe for ND & Autistic people int he community!🙏 https://t.co/AWiOemXXfh
— London Autism Group Charity (@lagcharity) March 22, 2024
