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'It Was Heartbreaking' - The Challenges of Getting Neurodivergent Kids to School

Writer: Radio NZRadio NZ

Published 19 November 2024.


Our CEO Justine Munro and Head of Programmes Madelaine Armstrong-Willcocks spoke with Radio New Zealand about the critical challenges neurodivergent tamariki face in our education system.


The reality? Over 90% of students with significant school absence have neurodiversities like autism or dyslexia. 


"Stop treating school attendance as if it's an issue of bad parenting or bad kids, start treating it as a neurodiversity issue." 

This isn't just about attendance - it's about creating an education system that truly works for every brain. Our rangatahi deserve learning environments that embrace their unique ways of thinking and learning.


Key takeaways from the story: 

  • School attendance challenges often signal unmet neurodiversity needs 

  • Flexible, individualised learning approaches show promising results 

  • Urgent need for increased learning support funding 

  • Teacher development and support are crucial 


 

  • Listen to the radio story here


  • Read the article here.




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Contact us

If you have any questions about the Neurodiversity in Education Project, please get in touch:

Phone: 0800 769 243

Email: hello@neurodiversity.org.nz

Postal Address:
c/ Russell McVeagh, Vero Centre,
48 Shortland Street, Auckland Central, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand

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