Designing for different minds: leading the conversation on neurodiverse learning environments

What does it take to create learning environments where neurodivergent children can genuinely thrive?

It’s a question that deserves more attention, and one that Joanna Watchman will be exploring on Thursday 8 October as she hosts a panel bringing together leading voices from architecture, education, lived experience and autism advocacy.

Organised by Glove Factory Studios, the event brings together leading architects Mark Ellerby and Fergus Feilden, author and autism advocate Pete Wharmby, and parent and educator Georgie Cutbill. Matt Williams, Chair of RIBA Wiltshire and Director at Lavigne Lonsdale, will also be joining us in a supportive role on behalf of RIBA. Together, they’ll explore what it takes to create genuinely useful learning environments for children with neurodivergent needs.

It’s a conversation that sits naturally alongside Content Com’s deep roots in the built environment. For almost 20 years, we’ve worked with organisations across the sector, helping to shape conversations around healthier buildings, energy efficiency, smart technologies and purposeful spaces. With 30 years’ experience in the sector, Joanna brings her own perspectives to the discussion.

Making space for different minds

For parents and educators, the conversation will offer practical ideas and a chance to hear different perspectives on how children experience the spaces around them.

For designers and architects, it’s an opportunity to think more deeply about how the environments they create can support different ways of learning and experiencing the world.

It’s a subject that feels particularly relevant to Joanna and the way Content Coms thinks about its wider impact.

“We’re a family-first business, so we see every day how much the world around children can shape their experiences and opportunities. We know how important it is to create spaces where different types of young brains can feel comfortable, supported and able to thrive.

“That’s why conversations like this matter. They bring different perspectives into the room and give a voice to experiences that aren’t always heard.

“A big part of being a B Corp certified business is putting our time, experience and expertise behind conversations that can help make a difference. It’s about using what we’re good at to support a more inclusive and equitable society, and giving a space to voices that need to be heard.”

Secure your place

The event takes place at Glove Factory Studios on Thursday 8 October at 6.30pm.

It’s free for full-time Glove Factory Studios and Health Club members and RIBA and RIBA South West Region members. Tickets for non-members are £12, including welcome drinks and nibbles. Register for the event here.