17/03/2026
As we head toward the end of term here in QLD, things can start to unravel a bit…
I’m seeing more of my clients hitting capacity, and families beginning to question whether their child’s school is actually the right fit.
Choosing a school for a neurodivergent child isn’t just about academics, it’s about finding a place where your child feels safe, understood, and supported for who they are and how they learn.
And while many schools say, “Yes, we support neurodivergent kids,” the real question is how. Not all schools are created equal, and the right fit depends on your child’s strengths, needs, capacity, and the environment they’re stepping into.
Here are four questions to guide your conversations during school tours or enrolment meetings:
1️⃣ What transition supports are in place for new students?
Transition supports like orientation sessions, gradual visits, visual schedules, or peer buddies help neurodivergent children feel more confident and ready to learn.
2️⃣ How are students with reduced executive functioning supported?
Check-ins, visual planners, chunked tasks, or flexible assignments can reduce stress and support engagement.
3️⃣ How are initial social interactions supported?
Structured break spaces, guided peer programs, and staff-supported social opportunities can make a big difference during unstructured times.
4️⃣ What training do your teaching staff receive about neurodivergence?
Teachers who understand communication styles, sensory needs, and emotional regulation are better able to respond with flexibility and support.
