What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences — including ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and others — are natural variations of the human brain, not deficits or disorders to be "fixed".
Research estimates that 15–20% of the global population is neurodiverse. This means that in any Erasmus+ youth exchange group of 20 participants, statistically 3–4 people will have a neurodiverse condition — often undiagnosed.
ADHD
Attention differences, hyperactivity, impulsivity. Often highly creative and hyperfocused on areas of interest.
Autism Spectrum
Different social processing, strong pattern recognition, intense specialist interests and sensory sensitivity.
Dyslexia
Reading and writing differences. Usually accompanied by strong 3D thinking, storytelling and problem-solving.
Dyspraxia
Motor coordination differences. Often accompanied by rich imaginative thinking and verbal fluency.
Dyscalculia
Number processing differences. Often strong in artistic and linguistic intelligence domains.
Giftedness
Exceptional cognitive processing. May feel misunderstood in standardised environments.
Why NFE is naturally inclusive
Non-formal education methods are inherently more accessible for neurodiverse learners than traditional schooling, for several reasons:
- Multi-sensory learning: Activities use movement, visual materials, music, drawing and storytelling — not just text and lectures.
- Flexible participation: There are multiple valid ways to engage. A participant can contribute through art, speech, physical activity or written reflection.
- No grades or failure: The absence of formal assessment removes performance anxiety, which is particularly important for ADHD and autism spectrum participants.
- Strengths-based framing: NFE starts from what participants bring, not what they lack. This naturally surfaces neurodiverse strengths.
- Collaborative rather than competitive: Group work and peer learning reduce the pressure of individual performance.
CLAVE's commitment to inclusion
CLAVE designs all its programmes with neurodiversity in mind. Practically, this means:
- Providing accessible formats for all communication (visual, oral, written)
- Including sensory breaks and flexible timetabling in all programme designs
- Training facilitators in neurodiversity-informed facilitation
- Offering an OpenDyslexic font option on all digital materials (including this website)
- Applying for additional Erasmus+ inclusion support grants for participants with specific needs
"It was the first learning environment where my ADHD felt like an asset, not a problem. I could move around, contribute in different ways, and no one compared me to anyone else."
— Participant, KA152 Youth Exchange, Valencia
Erasmus+ inclusion grants
The Erasmus+ programme includes specific funding to support participants with fewer opportunities, including those with disabilities or learning differences. These grants can cover:
- Individual support worker costs
- Adapted accommodation needs
- Travel for companions or support persons
- Specific equipment or materials
If you have a neurodivergent condition and are interested in participating in an Erasmus+ programme, contact CLAVE and we'll ensure all necessary accommodations are in place before you travel.
Everyone can take part
CLAVE programmes are designed for all minds. If you have specific needs or concerns, talk to us and we'll find the right fit together.
Contact us →