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What is a Neuro-Affirming School Assessment?

A neuro-affirming assessment recognises that every student’s brain functions differently and that these differences are a natural and valuable part of human diversity. It avoids deficit-based labels and instead focuses on understanding the individual in context. The goal is to appreciate how they experience the world, learn, and engage with others.

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In a school setting, this assessment helps us to understand:

• How your child learns and experiences school life, including their sensory preferences, attention style, communication, and emotional responses.

• Which environmental or classroom factors may be impacting their learning, engagement, or wellbeing such as sensory demands, group work expectations, or misinterpretations of their behaviour.

• How behaviours may be adaptive responses, helping your child manage stress, seek connection, or meet unmet needs in their environment.

• Your child’s unique strengths and interests, which are used to guide practical support strategies and inclusive classroom practices.

• How we can better support participation and success, by working collaboratively with educators and families to develop adjustments and personalised supports.

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A Strength-Based Approach in Schools

At school, a strength-based approach means recognising and valuing the unique abilities, interests, and motivations each student brings to the classroom. Rather than focusing solely on challenges, a strength-based assessment seeks to understand:

• What sparks your child’s curiosity and motivation?

• In what settings or tasks do they thrive?

• What are their cognitive, creative, or interpersonal strengths?

• How can these strengths be used to support learning, social connection, and wellbeing?

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By identifying what your child does well and enjoys, we can design learning environments and strategies that align with their strengths—helping them feel confident, capable, and included.

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A neuro-affirming, strength-based assessment also:

• Reduces shame or stigma around diagnoses by promoting respectful, empowering language.

• Gives families and educators a clearer, more hopeful understanding of the child’s unique profile.

• Guides supports that focus on building skills and participation—not just managing difficulties.

• Encourages self-esteem, self-advocacy, and a positive identity as your child develops.

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This approach helps schools partner with families to create inclusive, student-centred learning pathways that respect and reflect each child’s individual strengths and needs.

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Understanding Your Child's Needs at School

Assessments provide valuable insights into your child’s day-to-day functioning at school and supports their eligibility for NDIS funding under a category of a developmental condition. It focuses on how your child’s individual profile affects participation and learning, not only academically, but across all aspects of school life.

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The assessment report outlines specific functional impacts in key areas relevant to school settings, including:

• Communication – expressing ideas, understanding instructions, participating in group discussions

• Self-Care – managing personal tasks such as eating, dressing, or toileting (if relevant) during the school day

• Learning – processing and retaining information, following routines, completing tasks independently

• Social Participation – forming friendships, navigating social rules, interacting with peers and adults

• Emotional Regulation – managing frustration, anxiety, or sensory overload in the classroom​​

Reports

Reports are provided, depending on the nature of the assessment and outcomes, e.g., comprehensive clinical assessment report, school report, NDIS focused report used for funding applications.