Approximate reading time: 5 minutes
Preview: Self-advocacy in education
There is an increasing awareness of neurodiversity in society. People who are neurodivergent (sometimes also called ‘non–neurotypical’) have many qualities and skills to offer but may need to speak up to make their needs clear.
The information in this piece aims to give you some ideas and strategies for self-advocacy (expressing your needs) in education.
Key points covered are:
Formal assessment for neurodivergence
A formal assessment for neurodivergence (often referred to as a ‘neurodiversity assessment’) requires you to complete a series of tasks, led by a qualified assessor. Having a formal assessment is key to being able to request reasonable adjustments.
If you have had an assessment already, keep the assessor’s report in a safe place. It is an important document that identifies your individual needs. It also provides supporting justification for any reasonable adjustments in education, including the right to have additional time in exams.
Formal assessment is expensive. If you haven’t yet been assessed but think you may be neurodivergent, you will need to work with your school, college or university to be screened and / or assessed.
Even if you haven’t yet had a formal assessment, the tips in the following sections could help you to identify changes that could help you in education.
Understanding your profile
We all have different individual needs and preferences. Before you can ask for any changes in your education, it is essential to understand your own needs and strengths. Once you know what works for you, you will be able to tell others.
Some of the factors you can consider are:
There are lots of other factors to studying that you can consider. Take some time to think about how you learn and study best – this is essential self-knowledge for everyone. Also, consider wider support, as detailed below.
Seeking and accessing support
Educational institutions are steadily becoming more inclusive, allowing people of all neurotypes to thrive. Your school, college or university will have policies on supporting students who have individual learning needs or difference. Check your institution’s website to see what’s available.
The language and terminology of difference and disability are evolving and often have room for improvement. If you see policy wording or content that makes you feel uncomfortable, get in touch with the people responsible for writing it and explain your request for change.
There are many organisations that offer support and guidance for people who are neurodivergent, such as the British Dyslexia Association, the National Autistic Society, and ADHD UK. These organisations offer invaluable advice and contacts.
Building relationships for success
People working in support roles (SENCOs, personal tutors, disability officers, mentors and study skills tutors) are here to help you. They can assist you to understand your profile and to communicate your strengths and needs. Professionals working in education want to see their students succeed. Ask them for what you need, so that you can achieve your best.