For many students, Australian education systems are no longer fit for purpose. Effective differentiation and flexible, emotionally safe learning environments are not always provided in our schools for many gifted learners let alone those with neurodivergence/disability, who have higher levels of anxiety. Gifted students on the autistic spectrum, students with demand avoidance, physical disabilities, students with ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia etc fall into this subset of the gifted. Furthermore, within these groups there are often further comorbidities. A common comorbidity within these groups is anxiety, creating long term mental health problems in a country where mental health can never be adequately funded. High/extreme anxiety and trauma are preventing these children from flourishing in Australian classrooms. School refusal is at an all-time high. If Australia is to thrive economically and socially, these issues need to be addressed. The starting point is to understand the nature of this diversity, and possible adjustments.

School Level: Primary, Secondary

Level of Expertise: Novice