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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 750
Per course
Start Date
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
3 hours
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Courses
Major
Special Education | Child Psychology | Counseling Psychology
Area of study
Education | Health
Education type
On campus
Timing
Part time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 750
About Program

Program Overview


Neurodiversity Research Collective: Workshops

Overview

This is an interactive workshop led by two of our neurodivergent academics Dr Lesley Deacon and Zeta Bikova. Lesley is a qualified social worker and Zeta is a qualified educator, focusing on special educational needs.


The workshop aims to share knowledge of concepts such as neurodiversity, neurodivergent, and neurotypical. We support practitioners to better understand differences in practice and management styles that can empower all people. This is achieved through a mix of presentations, research, group tasks, personal testimonies, and application to practice environments.


The workshop takes a positive approach in which difference is valued and normalised following universal design principles. We come from the perspective that if spaces are neuro-affirmative then everyone can flourish.


Why us?

Course structure

This 3-hour workshop can be delivered online or in person and will take place in the North-East or London.


The workshop will be capped at 20 people and consist of presentations, research, group tasks, personal testimonies, and application to practice environments.


Each workshop is interactive, exploring the concept of Neurodiversity concerning the particular workshop focus, e.g. practice, autistic people, education, and the criminal justice system.


Examples from research and/or lived experience are also shared to demonstrate the application of neurodiversity in real-world environments. We also share useful resources and potential solutions for applying a positive lens to all working environments.


Types of Workshops

We have created a series of individual Workshops that organisations can purchase.


  • Neuroinclusive Practice (online or in-person at Sunderland City or St Peter’s Campus or a nearby location)
    • This is an interactive workshop led by two neurodivergent academics from the University of Sunderland, Dr Lesley Deacon and Ms Zeta Bikova. Lesley is also a qualified social worker and Zeta is a qualified educator, focusing on special educational needs.
    • The aim of the workshop is to share knowledge of concepts such as neurodiversity, neurodivergent and neurotypical. We support practitioners to better understand differences in practice and management styles that can empower all people. This is achieved through a mix of PowerPoints, research, group tasks, personal testimonies and application to practice environments.
    • The workshop takes a positive approach in which difference is valued and normalised following universal design principles. We come from the perspective that if spaces are neuroinclusive then everyone can flourish!
  • Introduction to Autistic People and Neurodiversity (online or in-person at the London Campus)
    • This is an interactive workshop led by Dr Nathan Keates from the University of Sunderland in London. Nathan is qualified… in Autistic people! Through their masters degree and PhD. Nathan is also a qualified educator.
    • The workshop aims to introduce the foundational knowledge about autistic people and the wider concept of neurodiversity. This has an ever-growing importance for everybody to understand and expose the myths and misinformation that currently exist. The workshop will include a presentation, group and/or independent discussion and thinking, video, games and exercises, and reflection.
    • The workshop offers a neurodivergent-affirming point-of-view in which the experiences of neurodivergent/autistic people are valued and their voices heard. The workshop is designed to be inclusive, so everyone can learn and develop.
  • Neurodivergent, Trauma-Informed Education (online or in-person at the London Campus)
    • This is an interactive workshop led by Dr Nathan Keates from the University of Sunderland in London. Nathan is a qualified educator.
    • The workshop aims to inform educators about up-to-date, relevant knowledge of neurodivergent people. With more discourse on accessible education, and understanding what has been termed additional needs to inclusive pedagogy, the workshop strengthens through challenging practices. Reflection is central to the workshop design. The workshop will include a self- and group reflection, presentation, group and/or independent discussion and thinking, video, and games.
    • The workshop provides a neurodivergent-affirming perspective that values the experiences of neurodivergent individuals, ensuring their voices are heard. It is designed to be inclusive, allowing everyone to learn and grow.
  • Neurodiversity in the Criminal Justice System (in person only at Sunderland City or St Peter’s Campus or a nearby location)
    • This is an interactive, two-part workshop led by Dr Helen Williams and Sarah Connelly.
    • The first part of the workshop will explore the experiences of neurodivergent victims in the criminal justice system. It will support professionals who work with victims of crime to understand the impact neurodivergence can have on an individual’s ability to engage with a criminal justice system which demands neurotypical communication and behaviour. This can significantly affect perceptions of credibility and access to justice. The workshop will use creative methods to make space for reflection and promote accessible and inclusive practice for all victims of crime.
    • The second part of the workshop will explore the experiences of neurodivergent individuals as they navigate the criminal justice system, with a particular focus on police custody. Given the overrepresentation of vulnerable adults in the criminal justice system in England and Wales, there is a noticeable increase in the neurodivergence population within this group. Police custody suites are busy, complex environments where custody sergeants must balance the exercise of authority with their responsibility for safeguarding and identifying vulnerabilities. This session will address how neurodivergence and vulnerability are framed together, the impact of neurotypical structures and practices, and key considerations for practitioners. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss current practices and explore future considerations for improving the handling of neurodivergent individuals in police custody.

Entry requirements

We don’t currently display entry requirements for Ireland. Please contact the Student Admin team on or .


This workshop is aimed at Local Authorities, particularly for social work/education/community work/health but also open to any organisation that would find the workshop beneficial.


Fees and finance

The fee for this course is £750.


This information was correct at the time of publication.


Related courses

  • Advanced Safeguarding Adults
  • Advanced Safeguarding Children
SHOW MORE
About University
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University of Sunderland


Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.


Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

    Academic Support:

    Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

    Student Support:

    Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

    Accommodation:

    On-campus and off-campus housing options.

    Career Services:

    Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

    Student Life:

    A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Top-Quality Facilities:

    The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

    Inclusive Culture:

    The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

    Vibrant City:

    Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

    Strong Industry Links:

    The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

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The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

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Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

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