Literacy and Classics: unlocking the classical world for neurodiverse students

This course, led by Emily Rushton, is designed to empower participants to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all students in Classics, with a particular focus on neurodiversity and literacy. We will explore strategies for enhancing reading comprehension, including techniques to make unseen translation more accessible. A core component of the course will be dedicated to developing skills in making classical texts more approachable for diverse learners. We will also focus on practical skills such as articulating clear and concise answers, effective exam technique and time management. This course is structured around collaborative inquiry, encouraging participants to share insights and work together to develop departmental-centred strategies that can be implemented to support a wider range of learning needs.

Emily Rushton is a doctoral researcher at the University of Cambridge and a passionate neuroaffirmative education consultant. She is experienced in both senior and trust level school leadership in SEND, as well as having taught Classics in both primary and secondary phases across state and independent schools. Emily has worked with diverse communities to create inclusive, empowering learning environments, bringing a unique blend of professional expertise and lived experience as a neurodiverse person. Her work has been recognised nationally, winning a NASEN award and being shortlisted for a TES award. Her doctoral research uses classical mythology as a creative tool to promote inclusion.