Virtual Work Experience for Neurodiverse Students

Working with The Courtyard, a school specialising in working with children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and/or communication needs, the contractor developed a six-week work experience specifically for neurodiverse students. This programme involved designing a welfare facility with coronavirus restrictions, using Matterport, DALUC and Google Sketch Up – this was based on a real-world problem for the project.

This was developed specifically to suit the needs of students with autism and/or communication needs, creating an accessible programme which focussed on using technology and visual aids as a way of communicating ideas. The programme picked up on a real-world example of a piece of work that needed ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking, utilising the skillset of someone who is neurodiverse. The programme was developed to celebrate neurodiversity and encourage neurodiverse people into the construction industry, therefore creating a more diverse industry

The project is now working with the school to encourage other employers to develop neurodiverse programmes and will be delivering a webinar on the subject alongside LNSEN (London Neurodiversity SEND Employer Network).