Episode 1 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Charlotte Mitchell, Equality and Diversity Performance Lead, Ayrshire College – Introduction
In this episode, Charlotte Mitchell, Equality and Diversity Performance Lead at Ayrshire College explores the concept of neurodiversity, discussing how society can embrace its strengths, foster a culture of acceptance, and recognise individual needs. In preparation for Neurodivergent Week, Charlotte speaks with some of Ayrshire College’s neurodivergent students.
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Episode 2 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Connor Ayrshire College Student
In this episode, Charlotte talks to Connor, the Student Vice President at Ayrshire College, about his neurodiversity. Connor shares how he has dyslexia and autism, describing it as “a bunch of jumbled-up stuff going on in my head, and I have to organise it into words and sounds.”
Connor also discusses the support he receives, such as noise breaks, extended time to complete tasks, and the use of assistive technology. He praises the students and staff for their support throughout his course. As Student Vice President, Connor is passionate about amplifying the voices of neurodivergent students.
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Episode 3 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Finlay – Ayrshire College Student
In this episode, Charlotte talks to Finlay, who shares his experience of enjoying the college learning week and how the college has helped him become more independent, allowing him to showcase what he can do on his own. Finlay describes his neurodiversity, mentioning challenges with socialising, overthinking, and listening. He also discusses the mutual support he and his classmates provide each other.
Alongside his educational journey, Finlay shares his passion for history, as well as his fascination with Scottish myths and legends.
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Episode 4 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Holly – Ayrshire College Student
In this episode, Charlotte chats with Holly about her neurodiversity. Holly describes it as “like a river—sometimes I don’t even notice it, but other times it moves rapidly.”
She explains how neurodiversity can make simple tasks more challenging and the difficulties she faces. Holly also shares how the college has supported her with additional breaks, extra time for tasks, and flexible working arrangements. Together, they discuss the social and gender differences in neurodiversity.
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Episode 5 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Natalie – Ayrshire College Student
In this episode, Charlotte welcomes Natalie who was recently diagnosed with dyslexia. Natalie shares her experience, saying, “I knew I learned differently and faced challenges, often becoming overwhelmed, especially with written text. I developed coping methods, and my preference is audio-visual learning.” She also mentions recognising traits of ADHD, which can be harder to diagnose, especially in females.
Natalie discusses how her recent diagnosis has led her to reflect on her learning process and approach to engaging with text. With the college’s support, additional measures have been put in place to create a more accommodating and effective learning environment for her.
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Episode 6 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Stephanie – Ayrshire College Student
In this episode, Stephanie, a neurodivergent student, and her assistance dog, Archie, join Charlotte to discuss the benefits of being diagnosed as neurodivergent and the support the college provides. Stephanie reflects on her journey, sharing how, after years of struggle, being diagnosed helped her understand her differences. “Now, I see it as something really beneficial. If I put my mind to something, I can do anything!”
Join us for an inspiring conversation on self-empowerment, acceptance, and the transformative power of diagnosis.
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Episode 7 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Zara – Ayrshire College Student
In this episode, Zara chats with Charlotte, who explains how her ADHD affects her learning. She shares how meeting new people can make her nervous and how fidgeting helps her focus. Zara also discusses the support she receives, including time in the wellbeing room, assistive technology, and accommodations from her lecturers, such as speaking slowly and ensuring a quieter classroom.
Zara talks about her determination to try tasks independently, despite her ADHD and walking disability, and how her neurodiversity influenced her course choice. She hopes to work with neurodiverse students in the future.
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Episode 8 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Savannah– West College Scotland (staff)
In this episode, Vicky introduces Savannah, Active Campus Coordinator at West College Scotland. Savannah provides a diverse range of support to various individuals, with a particular focus on neurodiversity in sport. She continually educates herself on how to best coach athletes, ensuring a person-centered approach that meets each individual’s unique needs.
Savannah discusses how neurodiverse students often face challenges with communication. To support this, she ensures that she clearly demonstrates new skills, as well as addressing sensory issues and the routines they may rely on. She emphasises the importance of being thoughtful and planning ahead to accommodate these needs.
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Episode 9 – Celebrating Neurodiversity in Action – Sylvia – West College Scotland
In this episode, Vicky chats with Sylvia, Library Assistant at West College Scotland, about her dyslexia, how it presented itself, and the challenges she’s overcome. Sylvia shares, “I always felt different—like something was wrong with me. I was behind in writing and terrible at reading.”
They discuss how dyslexia has impacted Sylvia personally and professionally. Sylvia explains, “I don’t want to be just dyslexic, I want to be more,” and how it pushed her to learn a second language and never let her dyslexia hold her back.
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