In 2024, the Student Leadership Team identified the neurodivergent experience as one of Open SU's four strategic priority areas. From this, a project group was created comprising of Student Leadership Team members and staff to deliver the changes needed. Two years on, that commitment has led to new resources, events, policy development and student-led community spaces, in the aim to support neurodivergent students across the University.
Here’s the progress we’ve made together:
Creating spaces for support and connection
One of our key achievements has been the launch of the Neurodiversity Support Hub – a dedicated online space that signposts students to valuable resources and support services. The hub provides a central point of information, making it easier for students to find the support they need.
Alongside this, we've established monthly Neurodivergent Student Drop-ins, which have been running since October 2025. These sessions have given students a welcoming space to connect, share experiences and shape conversations about their needs. An amazing 80 students attended our Welcome Week 2025 session.
To keep these conversations going beyond the drop-ins, we also created a dedicated OU Students Connect conversation space, enabling students to share resources, ask questions and chat.
Driving change at the OU
Supporting neurodivergent students means not only providing spaces and resources, but also advocating for lasting institutional change.
This year, we developed two best practice guidance documents:
Best Practice in Supporting Neurodivergent Students' Access to Module Materials
Best Practice in Academic Student Experience: Neurodivergent Students
Available through our What We Believe In hub, these resources set out practical recommendations to improve the experience of neurodivergent learners.
Celebrating neurodiversity
In March 2026, Open SU proudly marked Neurodiversity Celebration Week with a programme of events that brought together expert speakers, students and advocates.
Between 16 and 19 March, attendees heard from Dr Kim Collett, Samantha Morgan, Dr Poppy Gibson, Dr Jon Rainford, Mel Green and Isabelle Henman on topics from creativity supporting neurodivergent learners, to making the most of your tutor.
The events attracted an average attendance of 19 students per session, creating opportunities for learning, discussion and celebration of neurodivergent experiences.
Looking ahead
While this priority project work is coming to a close, our work doesn’t stop here.
Over the coming year, we will continue to grow and promote the Neurodiversity Support Hub, maintain our monthly drop-ins, and deliver events throughout the student journey. We will continue to advocate for neurodivergent students.
The progress made so far reflects the power of student feedback and collaboration. Together, we're building a more accessible, inclusive and supportive experience for all neurodivergent students.