Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Depending on how our brains are wired we think, move, process information, and communicate in different ways. Many people in our community use neurodiversity as an umbrella term used to describe alternative thinking styles such as Dyslexia, DCD (Dyspraxia), Dyscalculia, Autism and ADHD. But regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognising those who think differently. 

A few events are available for you to join in celebrating the week. Register free for any of the following.

Edge Hill University Events

As part of Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2023, Edge Hill’s Neurodiverse Society have put together a programme of events and sessions for Neurodiverse students to come together in a supportive environment to discuss their interests and experiences.

For those interested in learning more about Neurodiversity and the experiences of some of our Edge Hill students, the Society are hosting a Question and Answer panel on the Thursday evening, where staff and students can ask questions to our students (see below).

Social group

Monday 13 March

4 – 7pm

Opportunity for students to socialise and unmask in a safe and inclusive environment. Neurodivergent socialising will be centred, and we have a badge system to help facilitate this. Different coloured badges indicate how a person feels about others interacting with them, and ensures those who want to be left alone can still join the group how they wish. Students are invited to bring their own activities to do, and we also have different games to play.

Special Interests Session

Tuesday 14 March

5 – 7pm

Opportunity for students to share their special interests with the group. Previous talks have included Pokemon, transport, Helluva Boss, bears, and Vocaloid. We don’t have restrictions as such on the topics, however, we ask those sharing to inform us in advance of their SpIn topic, so we can prepare. Those sharing can take about 5-10 minutes to share, using any props or visuals they feel necessary. This will be in-person, however, we are hoping others can join remotely too.

Study Session

Wednesday 15 March

1 – 3pm

Many of us find it difficult to complete tasks alone, however, having someone else present and possibly doing the same or similar task alongside us can help us. This is called “body-doubling”. This session will be about creating a conducive study environment, for students to work silently alongside each other. It is not for students to get individualised support with their work, but to work independently.

Neurodiversity discussion panel

Thursday 16 March

5:30pm

Students will be sharing their experiences of being neurodivergent students at Edge Hill University. Questions can be posed in advance (preferably), or on the day. Speakers currently include those who have/are autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, dyspraxia, plural systems and Tourette’s.

Film screening

Friday 17 March

We will be screening a neurodiversity-affirming film in conjunction with this year’s elected Disabled Students Officer.

Online events

An Introduction to Neurodiversity

Monday 13 March

1.30 – 2.30pm

Neurodiversity for Parents and Carers

Wednesday 15 March

9.30 – 11am

Neurodiversity – a conversation about true acceptance and understanding

Lauren Duffy is a Presenter, Producer and Ambassador for the British Dyslexia Association. Lauren has Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Dyscalculia which she has faced adversities with throughout her life, but it’s made her passionate and determined to raise true understanding of neurodiversity.

Wednesday 15 March

12 – 1pm

Neurodiversity: We don’t all fit into one box!

Thursday 16 March

12 – 1.30pm

Resources

Courses at Edge Hill

Neurodiversity Network

You can join our Neurodiversity Network by emailing [email protected]