Disability Blogger, Writer and Campaigner

Aideen Blackborough

I have Cerebral Palsy but it doesn't have me!

Secondary School Assemblies

Inspiring Inclusion, Challenging Perceptions, Empowering Young Minds

Why Disability Awareness Matters in Secondary Schools

Teenagers are forming their identities, values and worldviews. My Secondary School Disability Assembly helps them to:

  • Understand disability beyond stereotypes
  • Explore the Social Model of Disability
  • Reflect on inclusion, empathy and difference
  • Develop confidence in interacting and communicating with disabled people.

About Me

I’m Aideen Blackborough, a disability trainer and speaker with lived experience of Cerebral Palsy. As a wheelchair user, I use my personal experience of disability to challenge assumptions and open up honest conversations about disability. Through story telling, humour and real-life insight, I connect with students, helping them to see disability in a new light – one that’s rooted in identity, resilience and inclusion.

What to Expect in a Secondary School Assembly

Each assembly is tailored to be age appropriate and meet the school’s objectives. The assemblies typically cover:

  • A bit about me: Living with Cerebral Palsy and how I navigate the challenges of living with a disability
  • Debunking the Myths: Busting common misconceptions about disability
  • Interactive Discussion: Real talk about language, attitudes and inclusion
  • Call to Action: How students can be allies and make a real difference

Key Themes Covered

A Secondary School Disability Assembly typically covers:

  • Disability and Identuty
  • The Social Vs Medical Models of Disability
  • Inclusive language and respectful communication
  • Accessibility in education and society
  • Challenging ableism and unconscious bias

Format & Flexibility

  • Suitable for KS3, KS4 and Sixth Form
  • 30-60 minutes depending on school’s schedule
  • Delivered in person or online
  • Can be adapted to meet objectives of PSHE days / specific awareness days
  • More interactive workshops available for smaller groups

What Schools and Pupils Say

“It was fantastic having Aideen in to talk to our pupils about Cerebral Palsy and living with a disability. It really opened their eyes to the impact a physical disability can have on someone and the adaptations that are necessary to carry out what they would consider to be standard ‘day-to-day’ tasks. Aideen’s presentation was informative and relatable despite highlighting her own experiences. Aideen answered all questions posed to her with honesty and humility which our pupils received well. Since Aideen’s sessions, we have also noticed a big reduction in discriminatory language towards those with disabilities. We would love to welcome Aideen back to our school to work with our pupils again. Thank you Aideen!!” – Personal Development Lead, The Heights

“I really enjoyed Aideen’s sessions as she helped me to understand what it was like to live with a disability. I didn’t realise that people with disabilities could do everything that everyone else does, they just have to make a few changes on how they get there. I definitely see people with disabilities differently now and will change how I behave towards them.”
Year 9 Pupil, The Heights

“Aideen’s assembly made me really sad when she was talking about how people will ignore her and talk to people around her when they want to ask her something because she has a disability. I will make more of an effort now to talk to someone if I can see their disability.”
Year 11 Pupil, The Heights

Book A Secondary School Disability Assembly

Ready to inspire your students and promote inclusion in your school? Contact Me to check availability and book your Secondary School Disability Assembly.