Celebrating Different Minds ( Published: 18/03/2024)

What is Neurodiversity Celebration Week?

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, and organisations with the opportunity to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

What is Neurodiversity?

To be neurodivergent means to think differently, or to have different neurocognitive abilities. This might sound a little confusing as we all have minds that think differently, but the term typically refers to people with profound differences.

These differences might hold people back from doing certain things, but then allow them to shine through other talents. For example, someone may struggle with their reading and writing, but excel in creative tasks.

There are many conditions that fit under the ever-growing definition of the term ‘neurodivergent’:

Neurodivergent people usually have one or more of these conditions, but this list isn’t exhaustive and there may be people with other conditions who are still neurodivergent.

Please watch a short video below about neurodiversity:

I founded Neurodiversity Celebration Week in 2018 because I wanted to change the way learning differences are perceived. As a teenager who is autistic and has ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia, my experience has been that people often focus on the challenges of neurological diversity. I wanted to change the narrative and create a balanced view which focuses equally on our talents and strengths.
Siena Castellon, Founder of Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Hopefully, the information shared throughout the week will help strengthen Siena’s vision for change. The students will receive information throughout the week, increasing their knowledge, respect and understanding of a variety of neurological differences. We are proud and passionate in raising awareness, encouraging students to show kindness, empathy and understanding towards differing needs.

Neurodiverse people have a good chance of changing the world just like any other.

People like Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, Thomas Edinson, Agatha Christie, and many others all had one form of social and physical conditions bordering on a kind of neuro-divergence or the other; but they changed the world. Therefore, surely it is evident that we should support and embrace neurodiverse people in their pursuits and dreams.

Please do not hesitate to make contact if you have any worries or concerns about your child’s needs.

Have a wonderful day.

Mrs Moloney,
Emotional Health & Wellbeing Nurse
Whalley Range 11-18 High School