Our response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on proposals to update the School Premises

The Donaldson Trust welcomes this opportunity to respond to proposed changes to regulations governing the construction and maintenance of school premises.

We know that, alongside social-communicatory differences, sensory processing differences – whether hypo- (lessened) or hyper- (heightened) sensitivities – form an integral part of the neurodivergent lived experience. Sensory regulation is a vital component of good wellbeing for everyone; however, it is especially important in enabling neurodivergent people to thrive. Sensory inclusion (though, all too often, exclusion) has a material impact on a learner’s opportunities, attainment, and pathways.

Our work with neurodivergent learners in education and our work with employers on imbedding neuro-inclusion has shown us that sensory inclusion and the built environment are inseparable. Shaping a truly neuro-inclusive learning estate for Scotland is central to delivering better outcomes for neurodivergent pupils – and imbedding this in reality should be a core aim of these updated regulations. We know, too, that adjustments and spaces beneficial for neurodivergent learners are beneficial for many of their neurotypical peers.

Read our full response here.