The neurodiverse classroom: educating all minds

Numeracy as a responsibility of all: supporting learners with mathematics difficulties (primary/secondary)

In this workshop, you will hear about mathematical difficulties commonly faced by learners with dyslexia and dyscalculia as well as inclusive teaching practices that can be helpful in supporting all learners. The workshop will also explore the impact of maths anxiety and the importance of understanding progression. The new Scottish working definition of dyscalculia will be discussed and attendees will be directed towards a suite of resources that are now available. This workshop will be of use to primary and secondary practitioners.

Iona Coutts, Education Officer: Numeracy and Mathematics, Education Scotland.

Maria Docherty, Education Officer: Numeracy and Mathematics, Education Scotland.

Assistive Technology in SQA exams and assessments – what can help? (secondary)

In this workshop you will learn about the use of assistive technology and digital question papers in SQA exams. More and more dyslexic learners in Scotland are using iPads, Chromebooks and laptops in school and college, so we will be thinking about whether and how these devices can be used in exams. We’ll try to dispel some myths and misconceptions and you’ll find out more about how to choose the most suitable type of support for your exams.

Paul Nisbet, CALL Scotland.

Annette Foulcer, SQA.

Dyslexia, deafness and auditory processing (primary/secondary)

The pathway for identification with deaf learners and those with auditory processing difficulties can present some complex challenges. This workshop will share some research and practical insight into ways of gathering appropriate evidence for holistic assessment and untangle some of the issues.

Samantha Moir, Depute Head Teacher, St. Roch’s Primary School (Enrolled on the Dyslexia and Inclusive Practice GTCS Professional Recognition Programme with a focus on deafness and dyslexia.) 

Jennifer Kelly, Acting Principal Teacher of Support for Learning and Teacher of the deaf at St Roch’s Secondary School, Glasgow.

Leslie Rowand is a teacher with Glasgow Dyslexia Support Service, supporting SLT, Teachers and Support for Learning workers both within their establishments and citywide.

Neurodiversity – adapting practice to meet individual needs (primary/secondary)

This workshop will help attendees to think about how to support neurodiverse children, young people and their families, as well as highlighting a range of high-quality training materials and resources. The facilitators aim to create a reflective space to consider the opportunities and challenges and to think about how to co-create helpful ways of working.

It will be set in the context of the ‘Neurodevelopmental Service Specification’ which sets out a framework for practice that aims to ensure that children and families receive the support and access to services that meet their needs at the earliest opportunity, based on the GIRFEC approach. For many children and young people, such support is likely to be community-based, and should be quickly and easily accessible.

Dr Suzy O’Connor, Clinical Psychologist, NHS Education for Scotland Programme Lead for Early Interventions, Neurodiversity in Children and Young People, and the Psychology of Parenting Project.

Dr Camilla Dyer, Clinical Psychologist, NHS Education for Scotland Programme Lead for Early Interventions, Neurodiversity in Children and Young People, and the Psychology of Parenting Project.