Best Practice

Simple ways to boost executive function in secondary students

Executive function skills are crucial to helping students thrive in their schooling and yet they develop unevenly. Dr Pooky Knightsmith explores practical strategies teachers can use to help students, including those with SEN, to improve and manage these skills
Uneven development: Students with neurodivergent profiles, such as those with ADHD, autism, or specific learning difficulties, may find executive function particularly challenging - Adobe Stock

Executive function refers to a set of mental processes that enable individuals to plan, organise, manage time, and regulate their behaviour to achieve goals.

These skills are critical for students to succeed academically and socially, yet they often develop unevenly in young people.

Adolescents with neurodivergent profiles, such as those with ADHD, autism, or specific learning difficulties, may find executive function particularly challenging.

Recognising the importance of these skills is the first step towards supporting learners effectively.

When executive function challenges arise, students may struggle with seemingly straightforward tasks, such as remembering instructions, starting tasks, or staying focused during lessons.

This article explores practical strategies educators can use to help students develop and manage these skills, enabling them to thrive in school and beyond.

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