We promote flexibility at assembly by varying the place where pupils sit each week and by classes taking it in turn to do a presentation or demonstration. Dermot found going to assembly very difficult as he struggled with the unpredictability of it and the fact that it looked different every week. As a result of his anxiety around assembly he was not able to attend initially.

To support Dermot to be part of this important social learning opportunity, his practitioner encouraged him to sit outside the assembly room with her and watch what was happening from afar. This allowed him to become familiar with the format of the assembly and the music that is played each week. We adapted how we referred to the assembly when speaking to Dermot, talking about going to the training room, rather than to the assembly. We were able to increase Dermot’s confidence and willingness to attend assembly by talking to him using only positive and encouraging language to reassure him.

Dermot is now able to join us for assembly every week and really enjoys coming along. This is an important part of his week, ensuring that he feels part of our community at New Struan. His ability to manage the changes each week has increased due to him developing his flexibility and resilience to the changing routine and structure with support from our practitioners.