Disability Awareness School Assemblies
I’m Aideen, a disability advocate and speaker living with Cerebral Palsy. I offer engaging, age-appropriate disability awareness school assemblies and classroom visits that help children understand disability, promote inclusion and encourage empathy.
Children are inquisitive – especially about things and people who are different to what they’re used to. I believe it’s important and beneficial to introduce kids to issues of diversity during their early years and to be open and honest about their concerns.
Disability Education for Children
I offer Disability Awareness Assemblies / Classroom visits to help children explore issues related to disability and ask the questions that are on their minds. Assemblies cover:
• What Cerebral Palsy is and how it affects me;
• How I overcome some of the challenges of having a disability;
• The things children can do to include their disabled peers;
• An opportunity to ask me questions about Cerebral Palsy or disability in general.
Testimonials from Teachers and Staff
I’ve done several of these disability awareness school assemblies in the past. The children have always responded brilliantly and engaged with thoughtful and surprising questions! The feedback from teachers and parents has always been positive and supportive:
“The assembly was extremely beneficial for our whole school community. As well as increasing awareness and understanding of Cerebral Palsy, our pupils were truly inspired by Aideen. Aideen had over 500 children’s full attention for 45 minutes – you could hear a pin drop! The feedback from staff and pupils has been extremely positive.” – Dorridge Primary School, Inclusion Manager
*****
“Thank you so much for coming to our school and sharing your story and experience. Children and staff found it really informative and I’ve had nothing but positive comments. You are always welcome back.” – Galton Valley Primary School, Deputy Head
*****
“Thank you so much for visiting St. Mark’s recently. The children and staff really enjoyed your assembly and a lot of discussion has taken place since your visit – you certainly raised awareness of this important topic. Thank you.” – St. Mark’s Primary School – Headteacher
*****
“Aideen’s visit has really generated some authentic learning about disability, discrimination, the need for kindness and empathy, and the importance of finding ways to include everybody. We would highly recommend her to other schools!” – Hanover Primary School – Headteacher
*****
“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!” – The Heights, Burnley – Personal Development Lead
Frequently Asked Questions
What age groups are your assemblies suitable for?
My assemblies are tailored for primary and secondary school students, with the content adapted to suit different age groups and levels of understanding.
How long does a typical assembly last?
Assemblies usually last for approximately 30 minutes or alternatively, I can spend a day visiting individual classrooms – this enables me to answer more of the children’s questions and tailor my approach to the various age groups.
Can you visit individual classrooms instead of doing a whole school assembly?
Yes, I offer classroom visits where I can engage more personally with pupils and answer more in-depth questions.
How much do you charge for a school visit?
The standard fee is £200 per visit, which includes 1 or 2 assemblies (for each Key Stage) and/or a full day of classroom visits. Travel expenses may apply outside of the West Midlands.
Do you travel to schools outside your local area?
Yes, I’m happy to travel to schools throughout the UK. Travel expenses may apply depending on your location.
Can we book you for special events like Diversity Week or Disability Awareness Month?
Absolutely! I often speak at themed events and am happy to tailor my presentation to fit your school’s focus.
How do we book a session with you?
Please Contact me to check availability and to make a booking.