Friday March 27th 2026
Harris Trust neuro-affirming classrooms event at Selkirk High School
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Scottish Borders Council has taken a significant step in developing classrooms better suited for children with diverse neurological conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia.
The local authority is moving forward on plans to develop “neuro-affirming classrooms”, following strong interest from both teachers and parents across the region.
It follows a motion brought before Scottish Borders Council this week by Selkirkshire councillor Leagh Douglas.
Under the agreed motion, the council’s Director of Education will now bring forward a report and action plan to the Education Sub-Committee in June, setting out how this work can be developed further across the Borders.
These classroom spaces are designed to foster a sense of safety, belonging, and inclusion, focusing on strengths-based approaches, sensory-sensitive design, and flexible teaching, which benefits all learners rather than just neurodivergent students.
The move follows two recent events organised by the Harris Trust, which saw almost 200 teachers attend an optional evening session at Selkirk High School, while a free parent event with 100 places was fully booked within three days.
Members of SBC this week heard that feedback from both sessions was overwhelmingly positive, with teachers highlighting practical ideas they could use immediately in the classroom, and parents keen to continue developing approaches at home.
Councillor Douglas said: “The response to these events has been really striking.
“Teachers giving up their own time after a full day in the classroom, and parents signing up within days, that tells you this subject matters.
“There is already a lot of good work happening in our schools. This is about recognising that and asking how we build on it, by sharing learning, working together and making sure we keep moving forward.”
Councillor Julie Pirone, SBC’s executive member for Education and Lifelong Learning, who seconded the motion, added: “What stood out for me was how practical and collaborative this was. Staff are clearly keen to learn from each other and from families, and that’s something we can continue to support.
“This is about building on what’s already working and making sure that learning is shared across our schools.”
Jane Macdonell, founder of the Harris Trust, said: “We’ve seen first-hand just how much appetite there is to better understand and support neurodivergent young people.
“What’s been really encouraging is the willingness to work together, schools, families and the wider community, to keep improving things for young people.”
Tweet Share on Facebook
