Choosing the Right School: What Makes Learning Work for Neurodivergent Pupils

In this episode, Cliff is joined by his daughter Eva to talk about her recent experiences visiting schools after receiving her EHCP (Educational Health Care Plan). Eva shares the differences she found between the schools, including teaching styles, class sizes and how things impacted her ability to manage her sensory differences. Episode Reveals The conditions around selecting schools once a child has received an EHCP The differences Eva has experienced between state schools and private schools Why smaller class sizes can make such an impact on learning for neurodivergent children The type of teaching that helps her thrive What can contribute to sensory overload for autistic children in school BEST MOMENTS “The best kind of teacher that helps me thrive is the kind of teacher that can have a nice laugh with the kids, have a little bit banter with the kids. But can also help the kids get the work done and that makes me feel I'm very happy” “The good thing about this school is, and one of the things on our EHCP requirements is a smaller class.” “If the teacher builds a rapport with you, gets to know you a little bit, you feel more comfortable in the class.” “With the bigger class it feels a lot more, I'm getting the impression from you, it feels a lot more overwhelming and there's too many people making too many jokes, you can't process all that sensory overload so therefore you just try and shut it out and it's because it's not funny because it's too much.” “It did feel weird to be excited to go to school.” RESOURCES ⁠⁠Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/hIXiGIA 👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister (aka Jeff) is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! CONTACT ME Facebook: facebook.com/cliff.kilmister Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 LinkedIn: Cliff Kilmister X (Twitter): @KilmisterCliff This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/