Language - Additional Information
Language is important because it influences our perceptions of, and how we engage with, the world. The terms we use have been chosen carefully to promote inclusion and respect.
A further note on language
On this website, we use:
Caregivers
The term "caregivers" is used as an umbrella term to refer to all adults or parent figures responsible for the primary care of a child.
Students & Children
The terms "student(s)" and "child(ren)" refer to young people. "Students" is used in the context of dance, and "children" is used more generally.
Inclusive Terminology
Interchanging terms to be inclusive of various ways that people might refer to their experience of disability, including "differences", "difficulties", and "disorder".
Respecting Individual Preferences
We acknowledge that there are different ways to talk about disability. While some people prefer person-first language (e.g., person with Autism), others prefer identity-first language (e.g., Autistic person).
We respect each individual's right to use the language that they prefer. Therefore, the content presented on this website uses a mix of both approaches.
Additionally, we acknowledge that some people with the same diagnosis might identify as having a disability, while others might not.
Framing Disability
The term disability has been referred to by bodies such as the World Health Organisation in terms of the interaction between the condition and personal and environmental factors, including attitudes, community supports, etc.
Important Reminder
It is important that you discuss language preferences with each individual student and use the language of their choice.