We need to talk about the neurodivergent teachers in our schools with Chris Benson

We will never have true inclusion in our schools while neurodivergent teachers remain hidden.

In this episode, Dale is joined by Chris Benson, founder of Headfirst Consulting and ND Chat, to discuss the neurodivergent teachers in our schools – and why it's a conversation that the profession shouldn't ignore.

Chris was one of the first serving headteachers to publicly disclose his own ADHD diagnosis. The response – hundreds of private messages from educators across the country – spoke volumes about just how many teachers are quietly living with the same experience.

Together, Dale and Chris explore:

– Why around 25% of teachers are estimated to be neurodivergent, yet there is almost no data, no formal recognition, and no consistent support in place for them.

– What it really means to receive a late diagnosis, and why a neurodivergent identity should never become a glass ceiling.

– The gap between awareness and genuine belief – truly believing that a child's behaviour is not a choice – and why this remains one of the biggest challenges in education today.

– Why ADHD doesn't even have its own data category on school management systems, unlike autism.

– What it means for a school to claim inclusion whilst its own neurodivergent staff feel they must mask.

– Why the teaching profession's increasing compliance culture is making it harder – not easier – for all professionals to thrive.

"We will never have true inclusion in schools whilst those in the teaching profession who are neurodivergent themselves remain hidden"

— Chris Benson