How Innovative Classrooms Support Neurodiverse Learners

Renie Sutherland • 26 July 2024

Creative, project-based learning environments are proving to be game-changers for neurodivergent learners, offering them new avenues to thrive and succeed.

Neurodivergent learners, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences, often face challenges in traditional school settings. Standardised tests, rigid curricula, and conventional teaching methods can overlook the unique strengths and needs of these students.

With our teachers increasingly embracing project-based learning (PBL) as a powerful tool to engage and support neurodivergent students, we are starting to see unassailable evidence of the benefit of this approach for neurodivergent students.

THE BENEFIT OF PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

Project-based learning emphasises hands-on, real-world projects that encourage students to explore subjects deeply and meaningfully. This approach allows neurodivergent learners to leverage their creativity, problem-solving skills, and unique perspectives. By focusing on projects that align with their interests and strengths, these students are able to demonstrate their abilities in ways traditional assessments might not capture.

THE DIFFERENCE A VIBRANT ENVIRONMENT MAKES

At The Bridge Assisted Learning School, classrooms are vibrant and flexible spaces where students engage in collaborative projects. These projects range from exploring the effects of global warming and pollution to designing and 3D printing sustainable buildings, demonstrating how such innovations can positively impact our world. Teachers have reported remarkable improvements in student engagement and problem solving.

A WINNING COMBINATION

The benefits of project-based learning within a vibrant environment are multifaceted. Firstly, it promotes a sense of ownership and agency over the learning process. Students have found that working on projects related to their passions keeps them focused and motivated. They especially love the Steams curriculum that is focused on solving real-world problems, teaching hard and soft skills through digital design, 3D printing and laser-cutting. They love that it does not feel like school – an oft expressed sentiment.

PBL fosters critical skills such as collaboration, communication, and adaptability. These skills are essential for all students, but particularly for neurodivergent learners who may struggle with social interactions in more traditional settings. Working in teams on projects helps them practice these skills in a supportive, real-world context.

Implementing PBL more widely will require significant shifts in teaching practices, professional development for teachers, and sometimes even changes in classroom design.

But the benefits are clear. In these creative classrooms, every student has the opportunity to discover their potential, pursue their passions, and achieve success on their own terms. And for neurodivergent learners, this can make all the difference.

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Neurodiversity Summit: The Bridge Morningside

by Tashka (Tash) Munisamy • 25 August 2025

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognises and respects neurological differences—such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive variations—as natural forms of human diversity. Rather than viewing these differences as deficits, the neurodiversity paradigm promotes inclusion, understanding, and tailored support to help each learner thrive. In a school context, this means shifting from a “one-size-fits-all” model to a flexible, responsive approach that honours individual learning styles, communication needs, and emotional development. At The Bridge School, we believe in embracing the diversity of every learner’s potential through a neurodiverse educational philosophy. Our approach includes customised learning paths that adapt teaching methods to suit individual strengths and challenges. We foster a safe, nurturing environment where students feel valued and supported, ensuring their academic, emotional, and social growth. Our dedicated team of experienced teachers and therapists works collaboratively to meet each student’s unique needs. With a multidisciplinary team—including specialist teachers, speech and occupational therapists, and educational psychologists—we offer integrated classroom support and holistic development. We are proud to launch our very first Neurodiversity Summit—a pioneering initiative aimed at equipping educators with practical, sustainable strategies for supporting neurodiverse learners. This event served as a platform for experts in the neurodiversity space to share insights, tools, and approaches to managing emotional and behavioural challenges in inclusive classroom settings. Our goal is to create greater awareness of neurodiverse learners and highlight the innovative work happening at The Bridge School. The summit featured four dynamic presentations: DIR Floortime South Africa unpacked the DIR model, sensory processing needs, and practical ways to support transitions using relationship-based interventions. A Parent Perspective will provide a heartfelt account of the importance of communication and collaboration between parents and educators in supporting neurodiverse learners. Tash Munisamy, Lead Occupational Therapist at The Bridge School, shared practical tips on emotional and behavioural management from a regulation-based perspective—including strategies for educators to enhance their own self-regulation. Katlego Mantsho & Tandzile Makobe, Speech Therapists at The Bridge School, provided hands-on behavioural management strategies grounded in communication development. With a vision to build a vibrant, supportive community, this summit delivered in it’s promise to be colourful, engaging, and deeply practical—knowledge was shared, collaboration was fostered, and inclusion was celebrated. Key Features of The Bridge School: - Personalised Learning Plans - Continuous Evaluation - Inclusive Culture