Creating learning environments where different ways of thinking and learning are supported
Every learner brings different strengths, experiences and ways of engaging with learning. Understanding neurodiversity can help educators create more inclusive, accessible and supportive learning environments.
The Supporting Neurodiverse Learners workshop introduces educators to neurodiversity and explores practical ways to support neurodivergent adults in Adult and Community Education (ACE).
Designed to be practical and accessible, the workshop provides opportunities to explore different learning needs, challenge common misconceptions and develop strategies that support learner participation, engagement and success.
Workshop availability
There are currently no workshops scheduled.
We welcome registrations of interest from individuals and organisations across Aotearoa New Zealand. Registering your interest helps us identify demand and plan future workshops.
Supporting Neurodiverse Learners is also available as an on-demand workshop for groups of ACE educators.
About the workshop
Neurodiversity recognises that people think, learn, process information and experience the world in different ways. Understanding these differences can help educators recognise learners' strengths, reduce barriers to participation and create more inclusive learning experiences.
This interactive workshop explores different forms of neurodivergence and considers how sensory, cognitive and communication differences may influence adult learning.
Through discussion, practical examples and shared experiences, participants will explore common myths and misconceptions, consider the experiences of neurodivergent learners and identify approaches that can be adapted to their own teaching contexts.
The workshop focuses on practical strategies that educators can use to create supportive learning environments, communicate effectively and respond to the diverse needs of adult learners.
What you will learn
By the end of this workshop, participants will have:
- Developed an understanding of neurodiversity and different forms of neurodivergence.
- Explored how sensory, cognitive and communication differences may influence learning and participation.
- Challenged common myths and misconceptions about neurodiversity.
- Recognised the strengths, experiences and barriers that neurodivergent adult learners may encounter.
- Identified practical strategies for creating more accessible, inclusive and supportive learning environments.
- Explored approaches to communication, engagement and teaching that respond to different learner needs.
- Reflected on their own teaching practice and identified ways to better support neurodivergent learners.
Who should attend?
This workshop is designed for people working or volunteering in Adult and Community Education, including:
- Educators, tutors and kaiako.
- Programme coordinators and managers.
- Administrative and learner support staff.
- Volunteers involved in adult learning.
- Governance members and others involved in creating inclusive learning environments.
No specialist knowledge of neurodiversity is required. The workshop is suitable for people who are new to the topic or who want to strengthen their understanding and practical approaches to supporting neurodivergent learners.
Workshop details
Duration: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Delivery: Face to face
Cost: Fully funded. No registration fee.
Location and dates: To be confirmed, based on future workshop planning.
Group workshops: Available on demand for organisations, regional networks and groups of ACE educators.
The workshop includes opportunities for discussion, questions and exploration of practical situations relevant to adult and community education.
Your facilitator
Nigel Sutton
Nigel brings extensive experience in adult education, having worked across universities, polytechnics, private training establishments and the ACE sector.
As Director of Wellington High School Community Education Centre, Nigel brings practical experience of adult and community education to the workshop and a strong commitment to supporting educators to create inclusive learning opportunities.
Register your interest
Interested in attending this workshop or exploring other ACE Aotearoa professional development opportunities?
Complete our short registration-of-interest form to select Supporting Neurodiverse Learners and any other workshops that interest you.
You can register as an individual or indicate interest in professional development for a group of 10 or more participants.
We will use this information to help plan future workshops and contact you when relevant opportunities become available.
Registering your interest is free and does not guarantee a place or commit you to attending a workshop.