The mainstream school environment can be overwhelming for many neurodivergent students, with sensory overload and social challenges often creating significant barriers to learning. Today, we explore an alternative educational pathway that removes these obstacles – a 'Specialist Online Provision for Neurodivergent Learners'.

In this episode, Dale speaks to Cathy Wassall, founder and CEO of the Autistic Girls Network and the Haven Online School. Cathy, a neurodivergent advocate and mother to neurodivergent young adults, shares her journey and insights into how online education can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for learners.

Key topics covered:

• Understanding Autism in Girls: Cathy discusses the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent girls, particularly how autism often presents in an internalised manner, leading to late diagnoses and struggles in school.
• Personalised Learning Environment: Online schools allow students to learn at their own pace and in a setting that suits their sensory needs, reducing anxiety and distractions.
• Flexible Curriculum: The Haven School offers a mainstream curriculum tailored to individual interests, enabling students to engage deeply with subjects they are passionate about.
• Enhanced Autonomy: Students have the freedom to choose how they learn, fostering independence and self-advocacy skills.
• Supportive Community: Online platforms provide a safe space where neurodivergent learners can connect with peers who understand their experiences, reducing feelings of isolation.

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About Cathy Wassell

Founder of Autistic Girls Network charity and The Haven online school for neurodivergent girls and non-binary young people. Neurodivergent mum to neurodivergent young adults. Author of Nurturing Your Autistic Young Person Plenty of experience of typical SEND parent battles.

Contact Cathy

http://www.autisticgirlsnetwork.org

https://www.facebook.com/AutisticGirlsNetwork

https://www.instagram.com/AutisticGirlsNetwork

[email protected]

Useful Links

Nurturing Your Young Autistic Person Book

Workshops for families

• B Squared Website – www.bsquared.co.uk
• Meeting with Dale to find out about B Squared - https://calendly.com/b-squared-team/overview-of-b-squared-sendcast
• Email Dale – [email protected]
• Subscribe to the SENDcast - https://www.thesendcast.com/subscribe

We have been involved with Special Educational Needs for over 25 years, helping show the small steps of progress pupils with SEND make. B Squared has worked with thousands of schools, we understand the challenges professionals working in SEND face. We wanted a way to support these hardworking professionals - which is why we launched The SENDcast! Click the button below to find out more about how B Squared can help improve assessment for pupils with SEND in your school.