Neurodiversity programme expands to 70 schools

Surrey County Council says the PINS scheme now supports 70 schools in Surrey

A scheme to support neurodiverse students has been expanded to 70 schools across Surrey.

The Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS) helps schools improve wellbeing and learning of pupils.

Surrey County Council said the scheme had a successful pilot programme that supported 41 schools last year.

It has now been extended to a further 29 schools in north east and south west Surrey.

Jonathan Hulley, cabinet member for children, families and lifelong learning, said he was "overjoyed" to see the expansion of the initiative.

"This programme represents our collective commitment to inclusion, early support, and meaningful collaboration across education, health, and family services," he added.

The scheme provides health and education specialists and expert parent carers to help shape a school's SEND provision, early interventions, training school staff and supporting parents.

Barbara Tucker, special educational needs co-ordinator at St Peters Catholic Primary School in Leatherhead, took part in the pilot programme.

"PINS helped us create inclusive spaces for children and families," she said.

"Small changes like noise-cancelling ear defenders available for any child at lunchtime led to improved mealtimes and consequently improved concentration."

PINS is a joint National Health Service England and Department for Education initiative.

It aims to support the inclusion and participation of neurodiverse children in schools.