Andrew Fuller: Neuroadvantage & The Strengths-Based Approach To Neurodivergence | Episode 154
“Turn learning from shame making into thrill seeking.” - Andrew Fuller
Andrew Fuller, Clinical psychologist joins Meg Durham to reframe neurodivergence through a strengths based lens.
We explore why labels alone are not enough, how teachers can think like coaches, and practical ways to change the neurochemistry of a room on purpose.
Andrew explains myelination and unique strengths, shows how language shifts like today’s challenge lift engagement, and walks through the Attach Approach so we can move students from agitation to connection.
We talk school culture that connects, protects and respects, sensory aware classrooms, after lunch resets, and partnering with parents around a student’s strengths.
The goal is simple and profound: help young people feel valued for who they are and set them up for success in school and beyond.
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Chapter markers:
- 00:20 Welcome back Andrew and why this book
- 02:00 What neuroadvantage means and why strengths matter
- 04:45 Teacher as coach building bridges from strengths
- 07:19 Music and maths the brain bridge we often miss
- 10:43 How recognising strengths changes learning
- 12:20 School culture CPR connect protect respect
- 14:33 Simple classroom tweaks that help every brain
- 16:48 Language shift from learning objectives to today’s challenge
- 21:59 The Attach Approach activate agitate avoid attack attach
- 25:36 Dance rhythm puzzles and the dopamine lift
- 33:33 Physical environment and sensory experience
- 35:27 Designing varied break time options to reduce friction
- 36:59 After lunch strategies that change the mix in the room
- 43:31 Partnering with parents using a strengths profile
- 46:24 Calming strategies and learning each child
- 50:03 Joy the future and being a catalyst
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Deliberate Actions:
- Open each lesson with a short challenge on the board to boost motivation quickly.
- Give every major instruction both verbally and visually so more students can follow along.
- Use quick fast thinking bursts followed by slow reflection to balance energy and focus.
- Replace learning objective with today’s challenge in your lesson language for one week.
- Introduce a three minute movement or music routine to start or reset a class.
- Identify one calming strategy for each focus student and practise it before you need it.
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Episode 154 Shownotes - Click here.
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Andrew Fuller Website | LinkedIn | Books | My Learning Strengths
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Meg Durham - Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
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