On neurodiversity

At Bundoora Secondary College, we celebrate diversity and embrace the strengths and unique perspectives of neurodivergent individuals. We are committed to fostering environments that are flexible, respectful, and accommodating to different neurotypes.

Our approach is aligned with the school’s broader vision for education, which empowers students to be PURPOSE DRIVEN, WORLD READY, LIFE READY, and to STAND OUT.

Guiding principles of neurodiversity-affirming practice

Reframing neurodiversity

We view neurodivergence as a natural variation in human cognition. Each neurotype brings its own strengths and challenges, and are valued equally. This reflects our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion and supports the development of LIFE READY learners who embrace their passions and strengths.

Promoting autonomy and agency

Support is person-led and responsive to individual needs within the educational setting. We respect diverse communication styles and preferences, ensuring students are PURPOSE DRIVEN, have choice, and a voice in their learning journey.

Presuming competence

We assume all individuals can learn, communicate, and make decisions. We reject deficit-based assumptions and maintain high expectations for every student. We aim for all students to be WORLD READY, where they strive for excellence and contribute compassionately to their communities.

Strengths-based support

We focus on what students can do, providing opportunities to thrive in areas of interest and talent. This approach fosters growth, self-esteem, and aligns with our IKIGAI model, helping students discover what they love, what they’re good at, and what the world needs.

Using strengths to build resilience

The strengths of each student are leveraged to help them navigate challenges. By anchoring support in what they do well, we empower them to face and overcome difficulties with confidence, encouraging students to shine in their uniqueness and bring value to the world.

Positive behaviour and consequences

Consequences are a natural response to actions and applying them helps students understand the impact of their choices while fostering responsibility and accountability. Our school-wide positive behaviour support  emphasises:

  • Positive reinforcement

  • Adherence to boundaries

  • Logical and appropriate consequences

This supports a foundation of creating positive learning spaces and empowering lifelong learning in a rapidly changing world.

Read more about our School-wide Positive Behaviour System.

 

Skill building focus areas

We prioritise building resources on skill development that supports lifelong learning and wellbeing:

  • Distress tolerance and self-advocacy: equip students to manage discomfort and advocate for their needs through functional communication. This supports entrepreneurial and societal learners who take initiative and contribute meaningfully.

  • Emotional regulation and executive functioning: teaches strategies for managing emotions, planning, organising, and initiating tasks. These skills are essential for becoming LIFE READY and WORLD READY.

  • Social skills and flexible thinking: supports relationship-building, interpreting social cues, and adapting to change with resilience. This fosters social engagement and prepares students for real-life experiences.

  • Self-care and growth mindset: promotes sensory awareness, digital safety, self-reflection, and confidence through structured routines and positive reinforcement.