Creating A Neurodiversity Affirming Environment
At Kaurihohore School, we are dedicated to affirming neurodiversity. We recognize and celebrate the diverse spectrum of human minds and the richness that neurodivergent individuals bring to our community. We understand that all brains are neurodiverse; this uniqueness is what makes us who we are. Our core belief is that every student has unique strengths and potential, and our mission is to create an inclusive environment that nurtures these attributes. We believe that when we get it right for our neurodivergent children, we get it right for all.
Teaching Practices at Kaurihohore School
To uphold our commitment, we strive to implement a variety of teaching practices designed to support and affirm neurodiverse learners and in turn, benefit all learners:
Differentiated Instruction
We tailor our teaching methods and learning activities to accommodate different learning needs and abilities. This approach ensures that every student can engage with the curriculum in a way that suits their unique learning preferences and feel successful.
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
We strive to implement the curriculum in a way that ensures it is accessible to all students by providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression. This framework helps us to remove barriers to learning and offer equal opportunities for all students to succeed.
Learning Environments
We foster a culture of collaboration where students work together in various group settings, while still providing for those that would rather work alone. This encourages peer support and allows students to learn from diverse perspectives. We use tuākana-tēina approaches across the school.
Sensory-Friendly Classrooms
Our classrooms strive to accommodate the sensory needs of all learners. We also provide spaces like Te Kōganga and smaller rooms with a low sensory load, where children can go when needed. Trusted adults are available for co-regulation, allowing students to reset and return to the classroom when ready.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
We integrate SEL into our daily routines to support students' emotional wellbeing. This includes teaching empathy, self-awareness, and communication skills, which are essential for fostering a supportive school community. SEL learning is seem as a. huge priority for our youngest learners.
Play
We use play throughout the school, allowing individuals to grow in their own space and time, follow their interests, and showcase their strengths. Play allows us time to really see and understand our learners.
Restorative and Relational Practices
We prioritise restorative and relational practices with our children, understanding that behavior is communication and striving for connection over correction.
Neuroscience Informed
As a staff, we are committed to continual development to being neuroscience-informed, knowing that understanding the brain assists us in knowing how to best work with all children and respond appropriately.
Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals
Recognizing the specific needs of neurodivergent students, Kaurihohore School is dedicated to providing targeted support:
Individualized Plans
We develop personalized learning plans for students who require additional support, ensuring their educational experience is tailored to their needs.
Professional Development for Staff
Our educators receive ongoing training in neurodiversity and inclusive practices, empowering them to better support all students.
Community Engagement
Creating and affirming environment requires a whole community approach, we aim to education all children and their whānau about nuerodivergence and aim to work from a place of understanding first.
Use of Technology
Where the use of technology can assist an individual and enhance their learning experience, we will do our best to provide it.
Our practices align with the principles outlined by experts such as Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin. Their work supports our belief that affirming neurodiversity and implementing inclusive teaching practices can help every student thrive and reach their full potential.
At Kaurihohore School, we are passionate about fostering an environment where neurodivergent students feel valued and supported. By continually refining our practices and engaging with the latest research, we aim to create a school community that celebrates and uplifts every learner.
We understand that this is an ongoing journey of development and it is one we are committed to.
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