The back to basics approach by Rebecca Clapcott (Awesome Archie Non-Profit).
Over the last 4 years of supporting local mainstream schools to be neuro-inclusive, we have received one repeatedly asked question. “We simply don’t have enough funding, so how can we effectively support our pupils with Autism?”
I share this to reassure you. If you are a SENCo or educator that’s feeling like you’re swimming against the tide, this should be a clear indicator that you are not alone! Thankfully, there are a myriad of reasonable adjustments that we can all make in our classrooms. Most of these adaptations are going to be no shock to our very experienced teachers however, things change. Research is giving us fresh information, therefore new neuro-inclusive strategies are being put in place that are showing positive results. Some cost nothing more than a few moments of creativity, others could cost just a few pounds, but all will make a significant difference, not only to your pupils but to staff as well.
Making our classroom more neuro-inclusive from the get-go is the ideal but, little tweaks throughout the term can be just as effective.
Here are some examples for you to try in your classrooms!
Visual timetable: Have a visual timetable as standard in every class. We know that children with autism commonly feel at their most secure in school, when there are less surprises. Not only that, it feels like a reasonable adjustment for all, the last minute supply teacher, the new TA or class volunteer, everyone benefits from this free and/or affordable adaptation.
A dedicated chill zone: Whether that be in the form of a SEN den or a cushioned reading nook. Importantly however, the kids need to be told that it’s ok to use these spaces when they feel overwhelmed. So many schools have these wonderful little zones that seem to go unused. I genuinely believe it’s because the staff and the pupils simply don’t know that they are permitted to use them. Ensuring we have termly refreshers for all staff regarding SEN policy or hints and tips gives gentle reminders to long-term staff but also ensures new staff members are kept up-to-date. We know that, presently, school staff rotation is at a high and we want to make sure that all staff are on the same page.
An “Awesome Archie Support Pack”: (Obviously you call it what you like!). We suggest that every class has a pack that contains school-friendly fidgets, a puppet or two (to aid with communication), emotions flash cards, sand timer and ear defenders. This little lot won’t cost the earth but will make an enormous difference to our pupils with ASD/ADHD. Chuck in a wobble cushion, tension bands (for around the chair legs) and some slime… and you’re good to go!
Interests: Referring back to a child’s interest in every available way. If you have a pupil that loves LEGO then use it to your advantage. Have it as a maths resource or a scene set up for creative writing. Heck, just have it as a reward for a job well done! These kids are working hard just to be in class so, I say, make it as fun and autonomous as possible.
Aromatherapy oils: It’s also important to mention the often positive effect of aromatherapy oils, not to add to the skin but perhaps in a diffuser. Being able to shape the scent of a room can be massively beneficial. Peppermint scent can boost concentration, Lavender can calm and de-stress and bergamot is the all round anxiety buster. In our experience, this more holistic approach has been helpful, however, it has to be used with caution so as to not overwhelm the senses.
So much about being a supportive educator, whilst trying to be as inclusive as possible, is just putting yourself in that child’s shoes. Surely this must be the easiest reasonable adjustment possible? Imagine how frustrating it must be to be told to sit still when you are stimming? Or to be quiet when your ADHD makes conversational turn taking almost impossible! These adaptations cost NOTHING but mean EVERYTHING.
I could go on for days (don’t worry, I won’t) but I will say this. If you would like to use any of our free school resources then please download them with our best wishes. They can be found on our website www.awesomearchie.co.uk. They are super simple but effective and can get you out of a tight spot if you need a moment with a pupil who’s struggling.
You will find colouring pages, positivity worksheets and links to all of our socials… most of which provides informative content with the occasional waft of silliness thrown in. Let’s enable all of our classrooms to become neuro-inclusive.
As I leave you, I want to say thanks to you all. As a parent carer, non-profit founder and educator I SEE YOU and good grief I am grateful for all you do!
Awesome Archie is a non-profit organisation that was founded by mum and son team, Rebecca and Archie Clapcott.
After witnessing Archie struggle desperately in mainstream school (he has autism, ADHD and tourettes), and experiencing the endless fight for any type of support, he and his mum decided to make a positive change. Founder Rebecca went on a personal mission to educate
herself to better support her son but fell in love with the brilliance of the neurodiverse brain and their non profit journey began.
They aim to predominantly support those that are at the very start of their Autism journey, whether that being from a parents perspective or that of those working in education. They
are also proud to advise, support and share all knowledge gained from having up to date CPD, one of which comes from attending the National Autistic Society’s annual professionals conference.
Awesome Archie non-profit has grown from strength to strength. They have been nominated for a BBC Radio Solent’s “Make a Difference” award as well as a National Diversity Award. They have also received messages of support from Harry Redknapp and Chris Packham, thanking them for supporting the community.
Awesome Archie non-profit have used this platform to support schools, parents and organisations to gain a better understanding of Autism and other neurological differences.
