An Open Approach to Neurodiversity

Summary

Welcome to the Downe House podcast where you can learn more about Downe House School. In this episode, we’re shining the light on our Learning Skills Department, a department which focuses on individual progress, in a way bespoke way to suit each pupil. There is no one ‘right’ way of thinking, learning, and behaving and in our school and differences are embraced and supported. Simon Jones speaks to Miss Sophie Appleton Wyeth, SENDCO and Head of Academic Support and three pupils Zara, Polly, and Serena.

Sophie explains how her team of specialist teachers provides one-to-one lessons, tailored to each pupil’s needs, whether they have a formal diagnosis or simply benefit from extra support. The department works closely with families, staff and external professionals to ensure that pupils with conditions such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, autism, and sensory processing difficulties receive the guidance they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.

The discussion highlights the school’s commitment to inclusion, early identification, and destigmatisation of learning differences, as well as its celebration of neurodiversity through initiatives like Neurodiversity Celebration Week and a supportive, open culture among both staff and pupils.

Takeaways

• The Learning Skills Department provides one-to-one support tailored to each girl’s individual learning profile, with over 100 sessions delivered each week.
• Pupils receive help with everything from essay structure and revision to time management and exam techniques, depending on their personal needs.
• The school supports pupils with a wide range of learning differences, including dyslexia, ADHD, autism, visual and auditory processing difficulties, and more.
• Teachers within the department have specialist training and continually develop their expertise through CPD and qualifications in areas such as ADHD coaching.
• Neurodiverse pupils and staff are encouraged to share their experiences openly, helping to foster a culture of understanding and acceptance across the school.
• Pupils like Polly and Serena reflect on how learning support helped them gain clarity around their diagnoses and boosted their confidence, both in and out of the classroom.
• Zara, a younger pupil, shares how she uses her LS lessons to consolidate knowledge in subjects like history and RS, and talks about her love for English and reading.
• The Honours Reading Passport is a literacy initiative that encourages pupils like Zara to explore a wide range of genres and develop a deeper love for reading.
• The school builds strong relationships with parents, often identifying learning needs that may not have been recognised previously and guiding families through the assessment process.
• The approach at Downe House reflects a modern, inclusive understanding of learning differences: there is no one “right” way to learn, and support is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

Links

Downe House online

Website: www.downehouse.net