Speaking & Events
Neurodivergence Speaker & Training for Parents & Schools
Helping parents, schools and organisations rethink neurodivergent support.
Changing the narrative from what’s 'wrong' to what’s possible for young neurodivergent minds.
Author | Former School Leader | Specialist Teacher |
ADHD Coach | Dyslexia Assessor
Bringing Together Professional Expertise and Lived Experience
Charlotte MacDougall
Neurodivergence Specialist | Former School Leader | Author
With over 15 years' experience in education, Charlotte supports parents, schools and organisations to better understand and support neurodivergent children.
As a neurodivergent professional and parent of neurodivergent children, Charlotte combines specialist knowledge with lived experience, bringing together research, education and a deep understanding of what it means to navigate a world that is not always designed with different minds in mind.
Her talks explore how we can move beyond seeing differences as difficulties and instead create environments where neurodivergent young people can develop confidence, understand themselves and thrive.
Author of Reclaiming the Narrative and Thriving with SEND.
Signature Talks
Beyond Labels: Understanding the Child Behind the Diagnosis
Rethinking neurodivergent wellbeing, identity and support
Themes:
Identity | Masking | Belonging | Wellbeing
Different Minds, Different Pathways: Rethinking Success for Neurodivergent Children
Why the world is changing and why education needs to change with it
Themes:
Education | Strengths | Future Skills | Confidence
Working With the Brain, Not Against It
Understanding ADHD, executive function and everyday challenges
Themes:
Attention | Motivation | Regulation | Routines
Recent & Upcoming Speaking, Training & Media
Speaking at The Sussex Health & Wellbeing Show
Rethinking Wellbeing for Neurodivergent Children
📍 East Sussex National Hotel & Spa
📅 27 June 2026
⏰ Health Hub Room 2 | 1pm
Why do so many talented, capable neurodivergent children struggle with confidence, anxiety, regulation or school life? Charlotte explores how understanding the child, brain and environment can transform wellbeing.
The SENDCast Podcast with Dale Pickles
Are We Encouraging Masking in Neurodivergent Children?
📍 Online
📅 Recording 6 July 2026
⏰ Release date 27th August 2026
Charlotte joins Dale Pickles on The SENDCast to explore why many neurodivergent children learn to hide parts of themselves in order to fit in, and why true wellbeing comes from belonging, understanding and environments where children feel safe to be themselves.
Lingfield College Prep INSET Training Day
Rethinking Neurodivergent Inclusion: Practical Approaches for Regulation, Attention & Belonging in Modern Classrooms
📍 Lingfield College Prep
📅 28 August 2026
Charlotte will be working with teaching staff to explore how schools can better understand and support neurodivergent pupils through a neuroaffirming approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide neurodivergence talks and training across the UK?
Yes. Charlotte MacDougall is a UK-based neurodivergence speaker, author and former school leader who provides talks and training for parents, schools and organisations.
Charlotte’s sessions explore how we can better understand neurodivergent children and young people, moving beyond traditional approaches towards greater understanding, confidence and belonging.
Do you offer SEND training for schools?
Yes. Charlotte provides SEND training for schools, including INSET days, staff development sessions and parent workshops.
Training combines educational experience, current research and lived experience to help staff better understand ADHD, autism, dyslexia, regulation, executive function and neuroaffirming practice.
What is neurodiversity training and who is it for?
Neurodiversity training helps schools, organisations and families understand different ways brains can think, learn and experience the world.
Charlotte’s training explores practical ways to create environments where neurodivergent children feel understood, supported and able to thrive.
Do you provide ADHD talks and executive function training?
Yes. As an ADHD speaker and certified ADHD coach, Charlotte delivers talks exploring the ADHD brain, executive function, motivation, attention, emotional regulation and practical strategies for everyday life.
Sessions focus on working with the brain, not against it.
Do you speak about autism and masking?
Yes. Charlotte provides talks on autism and masking, exploring why many neurodivergent children hide parts of themselves to fit in and the impact this can have on confidence, identity and wellbeing.
Her work focuses on moving beyond fitting in towards genuine belonging.
Are your talks based on neuroaffirming practice?
Yes. Neuroaffirming practice is central to Charlotte’s work. Her talks encourage parents and professionals to move away from trying to “fix” neurodivergent children and instead understand their strengths, needs, environments and experiences.
Do you offer online neurodivergence training and events?
Yes. Charlotte offers online talks, webinars and training sessions for parents, schools and organisations, making neurodivergence support accessible beyond in-person events.
Invite Charlotte to Speak
Charlotte delivers engaging, research-informed talks for:
✓ School INSET and professional development
✓ Parent education events
✓ Conferences and wellbeing events
✓ Podcasts and media conversations
Her sessions combine neuroscience, education, practical strategies and lived experience.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Marietjie McDonald, Parent
It's been great working with Charlotte. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience... I can't wait for the 6-week course to dive deeper... Thank you Charlotte!
Joanne Birkin, Parent
What can I say, excellent...
Some things really took my breath away... Thank you so much!
Libby Grace, Parent & Teacher
Thank you, Charlotte - the course has been truly excellent!