Psychologist Emma-Rose Parsons joins host, Leisa Reichelt to discuss how Individual Learning Plans (ILPs/IEPs) can become practical, neurodiversity-affirming tools rather than “tick-the-box” paperwork. 

Emma-Rose explains ILPs should document reasonable adjustments, support equal access to curriculum and school life, and help schools meet obligations under relevant disability and equal opportunity legislation—ideally through true collaboration with parents and, where possible, students.

They identify common red flags and Emma-Rose shares examples of better goals focused on access and regulation. The episode also covers school objections around “fairness” and staff capacity, noting the need for better whole-community understanding of equity and more teacher upskilling. 

They discuss how allied health can help by providing brief, prioritised recommendations with clear rationale, and how implementation often breaks down in high school without clear responsibility for sharing plans across multiple teachers. 

People & resources mentioned in this episode:

• Emma Rose’s website: https://emmarosepsychologist.com.au/
• Nuturing Sparkles Video Library” https://learn.nurturingsparkles.com.au/
• Neurowild octopus iceskates cartoon re: equal vs equality - https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02T5WZVb94KbcK5BzZannYZTNkRAnG39PWVqEVE9HS19PDY9LCJzErzE6KXzExV6Q5l&id=100087870753308
• Neurowild on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurowild_
• Lived Experience Educator: https://www.livedexperienceeducator.com/
•  Onwards and Upwards Psychology: https://www.onwardsandupwardspsychology.com.au/
• Yellow Ladybugs: https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/

Send a text

Support the show

• School Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustralia
• Make a donation to School Can’t Australia - https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved

If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you

You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on schoolcantpodcast@gmail.com

Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.