Last week, the Senior School celebrated neurodiversity in all its forms. Isabella and Nona in Upper V led two informative and thought-provoking assemblies in which they raised awareness of hidden disabilities and pointed out that careless language surrounding neurodiversity can be harmful. They also shared lovely stories that highlighted the strength, brilliance, and resilience of neurodiverse individuals, including those with Downs Syndrome and Autism.

On Thursday 19 March, students and staff at the Senior School wore odd socks in honour of World Downs Syndrome Day, which took place on 21 March. The school was even more colourful than usual with so many odd socks on display.

Here are some reflections from Isabella:

Neurodiversity is a topic that is extremely important to me and which touches the lives of practically everybody. I think it’s important to make a conscious effort to raise awareness on the topic to improve inclusion and acceptance in our communities.

My brother has Downs Syndrome so it is a topic I feel very passionate about. It’s important to me to inform others and change outdated perceptions and stereotypes which are harmful to differently abled people. Neurodiversity is all around us, it is something that should be celebrated and acknowledged, not hidden or misunderstood.

I was very grateful to be given the opportunity alongside Nona to do these assemblies and organise an odd socks day and hope this prompts further thoughtfulness and inclusion in the future.