E.ON’s neurodiversity network: choosing the right school for your neurodivergent child

As part of E.ON’s commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive and thriving culture, we’re proud to learn from and be led by our colleague driven networks. Including groups such as the embRace network, Fertility Forum, adaptABILITY and Working Families, we’re always looking for ways to support a healthy and inclusive work environment.

The neurodiversity network recently hosted a special session for colleagues on choosing schools for neurodivergent children, where insights were we heard the experiences of and advice from colleagues. As part of our aim to share knowledge and showcase diverse perspectives, we’ve collated some helpful information directly from the session below.

Key research tips and tricks

When researching, start by examining each school’s inclusion policies and approach to neurodiversity. Schools with clear, supportive policies for neurodivergent students tend to provide a more welcoming environment. Consider also the training level of teachers and support staff — schools that prioritise neurodiversity training often have more knowledgeable staff who can better address your child’s needs. It’s essential to ask about available resources, like sensory rooms, teaching assistants, and flexible exam options, to ensure the school can accommodate individual learning requirements.

During visits, observe the school’s overall atmosphere, paying attention to the availability of quiet spaces where students can regroup if needed. Speaking with the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) will also give insight into specific support measures in place, and schools committed to SEND will welcome any questions about their approach to neurodiversity.

It’s also helpful to familiarise yourself with UK SEND laws and your child’s legal rights, especially if they have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), to ensure the school can meet any outlined requirements. In the end, trust your instincts — you know your child’s needs best. With the right preparation, you can feel confident in choosing an environment where they can thrive.

An insight from the community

Georgina Gallagher, Senior Consultant at E.ON, shares invaluable insight with us regarding her experience with the neurodiversity network:

"I have two sons with autism, and I initially joined the neurodiversity network out of curiosity, hoping to learn more about supporting people with autism in the workplace and how I could adapt to make their lives easier. Fast forward 12 months, and being part of this network has been a transformative experience.

I’ve attended a breakfast session with neurodiverse colleagues, where we explored ways to improve meetings and enhance our internal recruitment process for colleagues with neurodiversity. I’ve shared my knowledge about transitioning a neurodiverse child to secondary school and exchanged personal experiences with others facing similar challenges.

Most importantly, I’ve found a community of support that reassures me I’m not alone in this journey. When my second son was recently diagnosed with autism, I had a safe space to share my thoughts and feelings within the network. As I think about his future, I am deeply hopeful that he will work for a company like E.ON, where his unique skills will be embraced and valued as strengths, not seen as obstacles to overcome."

Empowering your child’s future, one choice at a time

Ultimately, choosing the right school for your neurodivergent child is about finding a place where they’ll feel supported, understood, and able to flourish.

While the process may seem overwhelming at times, your dedication to understanding each school’s resources, environment, and approach will pay off. With a nurturing and adaptable environment, your child will have the foundation they need to grow, learn, and thrive in their own way.

E.ON is committed to creating a place of work where everyone has purpose and where we help and support each other to learn and grow. Our ongoing efforts to create an inclusive workplace have earned us a position in the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List for seven years in a row, with our most recent placement at 8^th.