Learning Support Policy: Coaching & Mentoring for Neurodiversity

Purpose and Scope

This document is designed to ensure equal access to learning resources, provide reasonable adjustments for those with a learning difference or diagnosed neurodiverse condition, and offer a supportive learning environment that empowers people with different learning needs, to succeed in their academic and professional development. This policy applies to all students enrolled in our Coaching & Mentoring for Neurodiversity courses.

Objectives

The ADHD Foundation is committed to:

• Providing an inclusive learning environment that respects the diverse needs of its students.

• Supporting students with a learning difference in achieving their academic and professional goals.

• Ensuring reasonable adjustments are identified and accommodated where appropriate.

Disclosure and Confidentiality

Disclosure

Students are encouraged to disclose, with accompanying evidence, any learning difference or diagnosed neurodiversity to allow the coaching team to provide adequate support. Disclosure can be made in your initial application, followed by evidence to be sent to the appropriate member of the coaching team upon enrolment.

Further information of whom to send this to, and what to send, will be given to you during your induction.

Confidentiality

Information disclosed will be treated with confidentiality in line with GDPR and the privacy policy. Disclosure is voluntary, and students who choose not to disclose their needs at the outset can do so at any point during their studies.

Assessment and Planning

Upon disclosure and evidence of a diagnosis (and/or evidence of a pathway to a diagnosis), we will conduct a learning support assessment, aimed at identifying specific needs and determining reasonable adjustments. At present, our main support pathway is to grant reasonable adjustments to deadlines.

Extension requests

You may request an extension of up to two additional days on assignments or assessments without providing evidence.

For extension requests beyond two days, students must provide evidence supporting their need for a reasonable adjustment. Acceptable evidence includes a letter from a healthcare professional, a diagnostic report, or documentation from a registered support organisation, or similar. This process ensures that necessary accommodations are provided equitably while maintaining academic standards, alongside staff capacity.

Staff Training and Awareness

All staff involved in the Coaching & Mentoring for Neurodiversity courses will undergo regular training in ADHD awareness and neurodiversity inclusivity.

Training topics will include understanding ADHD, effective communication strategies, flexible teaching methods, and support tools for neurodiverse learners.

Staff will also have access to resources and best practices for creating an inclusive learning environment and supporting neurodiverse students effectively.

Monitoring and Review of Progress

Regular progress reviews will be conducted for all students to ensure that the support provided aligns with any evolving needs.

The coaching team will use feedback from students and staff to continuously evaluate and improve the learning support provisions in place.

Annual reviews of the policy and its effectiveness will be conducted, ensuring alignment with best practices, student feedback, and new research in neurodiversity support for adult learner education.

Feedback and Complaints Procedure

Students are encouraged to provide feedback on their support experience to help the Foundation enhance its services and will be invited to do so at allocated times during the programme.

In the event of a concern or dissatisfaction with learning support provisions, students may submit a complaint through the Foundation’s complaints procedure, which ensures a fair, transparent, and prompt resolution.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant, effective, and aligned with the latest research and best practices in neurodiversity and ADHD support. Any changes to the policy will be communicated to students and staff through official channels.