Santa Sabina celebrates World Neurodiversity Week

What is Neurodiversity Celebration Week?

Founded by Siena Castellon in 2018, Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, organisations, and others around the world with the opportunity to recognise the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

Approximately 15-20% of the population has a neurological difference. Instead of labelling people with deficits or disorders, when we use the term neurodiversity, we take a balanced view of an individual’s unique strengths and challenges.

Many challenges neurodivergent people face are more to do with the environment and systems they are placed in, often designed by a majority population. Neurodiversity includes ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia and Autism, but regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognising those who think differently and celebrating our differences.

Our wonderful Library staff have set up a display for students to learn about neurodiversity during Harmony Week. The display focuses on many famous authors who are either neurodiverse or have written stories about neurodiversity.

Jo McKeown
Dean of Inclusive Education P-12