ANA/SNA Webinar: Understanding Neurodiversity

This online training is designed for SNAs/ANAs who want to better understand how to connect with and support neurodivergent students, with a particular focus on students with PDA (Persistent Drive for Autonomy).

Many school-based approaches unintentionally increase stress by prioritising compliance over emotional safety.

This training offers a nervous-system and trauma-informed perspective, helping SNAs understand the why behind behaviours often labelled as “challenging,” and how to respond in ways that reduce distress and build trust.

The session focuses on practical, relational strategies that SNAs can use in real school environments—supporting autonomy, co-regulation, sensory needs, and emotional safety, while recognising the realities of school expectations.

The training includes a 50-minute live webinar, a 10-minute Q&A, and a downloadable guide handout to support reflection and implementation in school settings.

Cost: €40 per school (one access link per school)

Sorcha Rice is an Autistic, ADHD, PDA Senior Occupational Therapist and Clinical Manager at Neurodiversity Ireland. She blends lived experience with clinical expertise to promote safety, autonomy, and sensory-supportive environments for neurodivergent children.