October marks ADHD Awareness Month, a time to shed light on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and advocate for greater understanding, inclusion, and support especially in schools, where early intervention can make a lifelong difference.

ADHD affects approximately 5–7% of children worldwide, and while every child with ADHD is unique, many face challenges with attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation. These can impact their academic performance, social relationships, and self-esteem. But with the right support, pupils with ADHD, and any other SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) can thrive.

Why Schools Are Key to ADHD and SEND Support

Schools are not just places of learning, they’re environments where children develop confidence, resilience, and identity. For pupils with ADHD or other neurodivergence, a supportive school can be the difference between struggle and success.

How Schools Can Support Pupils with ADHD and SEND Needs

Here are practical, evidence-based steps schools can take to create inclusive and empowering environments:-

  1. Raise Awareness Among Staff through
  • Training: Provide regular professional development on ADHD, including its symptoms, how it presents differently in boys and girls, and strategies for classroom management.
  • Empathy Building: Encourage staff to understand ADHD as a neurodevelopmental condition, not a behavioural choice.
  1. Create Structured and Predictable Environments
  • Clear Routines: Pupils with ADHD benefit from consistent schedules and visual timetables.
  • Transitions: Use cues and reminders to help with transitions between activities.
  1. Use Individualised Support Plans
  • SEND Support: Ensure pupils with ADHD are assessed for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support.
  • EHCPs: Where appropriate, work with families and professionals to develop Education, Health and Care Plans.
  1. Adapt Teaching Strategies
  • Instructions: Break tasks into manageable steps.
  • Flexible Seating: Allow movement breaks or alternative seating arrangements.
  • Multisensory Learning: Use visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology to engage attention.
  1. Encourage Positive Behaviour Support
  • Praise and Encouragement: Focus on strengths and effort, not just outcomes.
  • Clear Expectations: Use positive reinforcement and consistent consequences.
  • De-escalation Techniques: Train staff in managing emotional dysregulation calmly and effectively
  1. Collaborate with Families
  • Open Communication: Maintain regular contact with parents/carers to share progress and concerns.
  • Workshops: Offer sessions to help families understand ADHD and support learning at home.
  1. Promote Mental Health and Wellbeing
  • Counselling Access: Provide access to school counsellors or mental health support.
  • Peer Support: Encourage inclusive peer relationships and anti-bullying initiatives.
  1. Celebrate Neurodiversity
  • Assemblies and Campaigns: Use ADHD Awareness Month to celebrate neurodiversity and challenge stigma.
  • Student Voice: Involve pupils with ADHD in shaping school policies and practices.

Your Role in ADHD Awareness and SEND Support

ADHD Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that every child deserves to be understood, supported, and celebrated. By taking proactive steps, schools can create environments where pupils with ADHD not only cope but flourish.

If you feel that your child’s school could offer more support to your child, wish for your child to have an EHCP or are unhappy with the EHCP that has been drafted then our SEND solicitors at FJG can assist with these and any other SEND enquiry.

Alternatively, if you are an Education Provider and need advice regarding reasonable adjustments and steps that can be taken to support the children you are responsible for please do not hesitate to contact us.

How FJG Can HelpRachel Earnshaw - Partner at Fisher Jones Greenwood LLP

Rachel Earnshaw is a Partner in our  Family Law Team, specialising in children law, and is appointed to the Law Society’s Children Panel.

For further advice on any aspect of family law, please contact one of our team in our Colchester, Clacton or Chelmsford offices on 01206 835320, or via our online enquiry form.