Support for neurodivergent students
No formal diagnosis required!
Skillshops:
- Small group programs for neurodivergent students enrolled at Macquarie University
- For those who identify with Specific Learning Disability, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Living Autistic, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger’s, Tourette’s Syndrome etc
- Provide an opportunity to connect with neurodivergent peers and learn about available university supports
- Run during Sessions 1 and 2 teaching weeks
- Aligned with the undergraduate lifecycle
The Skillshops Team aims to provide an accessible experience for all students, including those with hearing and vision impacts.
Overview
Students can attend one or more of our four Skillshops:
SURESTART: Fridays 11am – Hybrid - In Person OR Online
- a 5-week orientation program for neurodivergent students in their FIRST enrolled session of study at Macquarie University
INSIGHT: Tuesdays 11am – Online only
- a weekly drop-in skillshop to explore Assistive Technology supports for reading, writing and organising notes
ASPIRE: Thursdays 11am – Online only
- a 12-week program for students who identify as Living Autistic, on the Autism Spectrum, or with Asperger’s (ASD) to support adjusting to university
FOCUS: Thursdays 1pm – Online only
- a 12-week program for students who identity with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) that supports study engagement
Activities
Each of the Skillshops vary slightly but they all generally involve:
- Wellbeing check-ins
- Weekly assessment task checks
- A topic of interest, such as procrastination, perfectionism, and managing study stress
Students are invited to ask questions and share strategies. However, we recognise that participation can take many forms, including quiet internal reflection, and this is most welcomed.
If you relate to more than one Skillshop then come along to as many that interest you.
Remember, a formal diagnosis is NOT required to register or attend.
Timetable
| Skillshop | Day | Time | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|
| SURESTART (New Students) | Fridays Weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 4, only | 11am - 12pm | Hybrid (In-person OR Online) |
| INSIGHT (SLD) | Tuesdays | 11am - 12pm | Online |
| ASPIRE (Autism) | Thursdays | 11am - 12pm | Online |
| FOCUS (ADHD) | Thursdays | 1pm - 2pm | Online |
Register for a Skillshop
Register your interest by completing the online form below. Once you submit the form you will be contacted closer to the commencement date with more details.
It's ok to register even if you're not sure you can attend.
Register your interest in SureStart Skillshop
Register your interest in Insight, Focus, Aspire Skillshops
Enquiries
For more information, have a look at Skillshops Details and FAQs.
For further enquiries, or if you require help to complete the online registration form, contact the Accessibility Service on +61 (2) 9850 7497 or email accessibility@mq.edu.au.