Despite growing recognition of neurodiversity in education, the experiences of neurodivergent education leaders remain largely under‑researched and under‑represented. Existing leadership models and organisational norms often reflect neurotypical assumptions, creating structural and cultural barriers that shape how neurodivergent leaders experience their roles, wellbeing, and professional identity. Yet emerging accounts suggest that neurodivergent leaders bring distinctive strengths, including systems thinking, heightened sensitivity to inclusion, and alternative approaches to problem‑solving, which are particularly valuable in complex educational contexts.

This paper draws on a participatory, mixed‑methods research exploring the professional journeys of a small group of neurodivergent education leaders within the UK. Grounded in the neurodiversity paradigm, the research privileges lived experience over deficit‑based narratives and centres the voices of leaders who identify as neurodivergent, with or without formal diagnosis. Across surveys, semi‑structured interviews, and collaborative reflection, participants explored their daily leadership roles, the impact of neurodivergence on wellbeing, experiences of disclosure and masking, and the supports that enable sustainable leadership.

The findings highlight tensions between individual capability and systemic expectation, illustrating how neurodivergent leaders navigate environments not designed with neurocognitive diversity in mind. In addition, the findings from the study will support the co‑development of a reflective tool designed used to support neurodivergent leaders’ professional development and wellbeing.

Authors:
Daniel Beck, University of Chichester, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Daniel Beck is a qualified SENDCo with 15 years of experiences in educational leadership. He is currently the joint Head of SEND service for Southampton City Council and has lead on various strategic SEND projects within the role.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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