Edge Hill University
“Empowering Neurodiverse Teachers: Enhancing Support for Trainees and Mentors in Initial Teacher Education”
Supporting trainees and mentors with neurodiversity in Initial Teacher Education (ITE) is essential for fostering inclusive, equitable learning environments. Neurodiversity (ND), which encompasses a range of neurological conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, requires tailored approaches to teaching and mentoring. For trainees, the ITE process should include clear support structures, such as personalised learning plans, assistive technology, and flexible assessment methods. Understanding and accommodating their unique needs promotes confidence and success in their training.
It is essential our mentors receive effective training to support and guide ND trainees. This provides the lens in which they can respond to the requirements displayed and initiate strategies: modifying communication styles, offering additional time for tasks, or providing clear, structured feedback. Creating an environment where ND trainees feel understood and supported benefits both the trainee’s development and the mentor’s professional growth.
Moreover, fostering a culture of openness and sensitivity around ND ensures that all trainees can thrive. Through the implementation of these strategies in ITE, institutions can produce educators who are not only skilled but also empathetic to diverse learning needs, promoting a more inclusive teaching profession.
Leon Fraser’s Edge Hill University staff page