Kellogg Fellow develops new toolkit for neurodivergent students

Dr Xin Xu, Kellogg College Fellow and Departmental Lecturer in Education at the University of Oxford’s Department of Education, has co-authored a new toolkit designed to support neurodivergent students in higher education.

The work draws on the Neurodivergent Education for Students, Teaching and Learning (NESTL) project, which was recently shortlisted for a Vice-Chancellor’s Award in the Support for Students category. Developed in collaboration with neurodivergent students and educators, the project centres lived experience in shaping more inclusive teaching practices.

The NESTL toolkit introduces a practical framework for educators, structured around four key areas:

• Awareness and understanding

• Inclusive teaching environments

• Assessment and feedback

• Accessible support

It also highlights strategies that can be implemented immediately, from using flexible assessment formats to creating sensory-considerate learning spaces. Dr Xu specialises in research on higher education systems and policy. Her work highlights how inclusive approaches not only support neurodivergent students but enhance learning for all.

Xin comments on her hopes for the future success of the toolkit:

“I hope the NESTL toolkit will support teaching and learning as we work together to cultivate an environment where all students can flourish.”

The project emphasises that small, consistent changes in teaching practice, alongside institutional and sector-wide commitment, can help create a more inclusive and resilient higher education environment.