Celebrating Neurodiversity A Student-Led Interview with a Visiting Expert

As part of this year’s Neurodiversity Celebration Week, students took centre stage in a unique event that highlighted their curiosity, leadership, and commitment to inclusion. The initiative to invite a guest speaker was sparked during a recent student council meeting, where pupils voiced a strong interest in learning more about neurodiversity from an expert perspective. Their suggestion set in motion a special visit from Dr.Amanda Verriden, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA of TheNew England Center for Children (NECC), who shared her knowledge and experiences with an attentive student audience.

Dr. Verriden’s visit was marked by a thoughtful and engaging student-led interview. Questions were crafted by pupils from across the school, reflecting a deep sense of empathy and a genuine desire to understand the diverse ways in which people experience the world. Leading the interview were four members of the Primary Student Council — Micayla Eadie (5D), Kavish Bhatt (6C), Henry Hughes (4B), and Gabriel Ngoka (6D) — who impressed the guest with their confidence, curiosity, and professionalism.

The visit not only provided valuable insights into neurodiversity but also showcased the power of student voice. It was a proud moment for the school community and a strong reminder of the importance of student-led initiatives in fostering inclusion and awareness. 

Click here to watch the full Podcast!