England launches free DfE-funded neurodiversity training for schools and colleges — 23 September 2026

A new neurodiversity training resource is now live for schools and colleges in England. Whole School SEND lists new Train the Trainer packages for primary, secondary and further education dated 23 September 2026.

WHAT CHANGED TODAY

The packages are provided through Universal SEND Services and are free to access thanks to Department for Education funding. They are designed for leaders, SENCOs and inclusion teams to deliver neurodiversity training inside their own settings.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

The resource includes ready-made leadership and teacher training slides, activities, case studies and presenter guidance. Bitesize modules cover executive function, intersectionality, adaptive teaching and independence. Whole School SEND says the packages support inclusive, neuro-affirming practice and are tailored separately for primary, secondary and further education.

STATUS CHECK

CONFIRMED DfE-FUNDED TRAINING / SUPPORT RESOURCE — NOT STATUTORY GUIDANCE, LEGISLATION OR A BINDING SCHOOL RULE. Whole School SEND says the materials are aligned with current DfE and EEF guidance. That does not make the training itself a new rule.

WHY IT MATTERS

The model gives schools and colleges a free, reusable way to build staff understanding of neurodiversity without requiring an external trainer. The focus is needs-led, strengths-based and designed for ongoing professional development.

SOURCES

Whole School SEND, Neurodiversity Awareness: https://www.wholeschoolsend.org.uk/page/neurodiversity-awareness

Surrey Education Services, 16 September 2026: https://surreyeducationservices.surreycc.gov.uk/Article/192808