Celebrating Neurodiversity

RIPON Grammar School students, parents and staff can enjoy a wide range of activities, including talks and workshops by guest speakers, to mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week.

Running from March 17 to 21, this is a worldwide initiative which challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences.

Among the speakers coming to RGS are Dr Martin Bloomfield, a dyslexia awareness consultant, who will run a student workshop.

“One of the biggest misconceptions about dyslexia is that it’s a reading difficulty – and that words dance about on the page. While this is a real issue called Irlen syndrome, not everyone with dyslexia has it – far from it,” he says.

In an assembly for years 9, 11 and 12 students, Steve Wearne will talk about his own personal ADHD journey while Andrea Chapman from the Daisy Chain charity, which supports autistic and neurodivergent children, young people, adults and their families, will run a workshop for parents.

The aim of the events is to help transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools with the opportunity to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

See how RGS students, parents and staff can get involved, below: