STUDENT WELLBEING

Practical Strategies

One of the biggest challenges in education is the growing number of students experiencing school attendance difficulties (also known as ‘school can’t’ because the young person’s struggles are not by choice). Neurodivergent students are among the most affected.

Helping a neurodivergent student safely reengage with school involves multiple people working together. The purpose of this video is to assist government school leadership teams and regional implementation teams who are dealing with students experiencing intense levels of disengagement. As Rachael’s story conveys, the response doesn’t need to be complicated. Rather, the first step is incredibly straightforward: above all else, focus on creating a sense of safety for that learner.

KEY INSIGHTS FROM THE VIDEO

  • Validating that a student is struggling – as opposed to willfully “skipping” school – helps create a foundation of trust and understanding between that student/their family and the school.
  • Neurodivergent students might be hesitant to ask for help or recognise that they deserve support, which is why it is so valuable for teachers to proactively check in with them.

RACHAEL’S STORY

Part 2: Student Wellbeing