GW4 Neurodivergent PGR Community Festival 2026

Join us for the first GW4 Neurodivergent PGR Community Festival; a day designed by neurodivergent postgraduate students, for neurodivergent postgraduate students.

THE EVENT

This free one-day festival on 23rd February 2026 celebrates the contributions of neurodivergent students across the GW4 universities (Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, and Exeter), while providing an inclusive, supportive, and sustainable space to connect, share experiences, and reimagine what a truly neuroinclusive academic event can look like.

The event will tale place in person at St Michael's Centre in Bristol and tickets to join online will also be available.

WHY WE ARE DOING THIS

Traditional conferences can be overwhelming, overstimulating, or inaccessible for many neurodivergent people. This event aims to change that. With a carefully designed schedule, quiet spaces, optional networking, and accessible formats, the festival prioritises wellbeing, comfort, and authentic connection.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Expect a mix of workshops, discussions, creative sessions, and confidence-building opportunities, potentially exploring topics such as:

• Navigating supervision and seeking reasonable adjustments
• Managing wellbeing
• Building networks and community in academia
• Expressing research creatively

BE PART OF SHAPING RESEARCH AND CHANGE

Whether attending in person or online, you’ll have the chance to meet fellow neurodivergent PGRs*, share insights, and contribute to shaping a more inclusive future for postgraduate research.

All feedback gathered during the event will inform a GW4 report offering recommendations to improve accessibility and inclusion across future postgraduate research festivals and doctoral college initiatives.

THE HOSTS

This festival is proudly created by a team of neurodivergent students, supported by Inclusive Change, and represents a step towards a kinder, fairer, and more inclusive academic culture.

*This event is designed for PGRs, however PGTs and academic staff are also welcome to attend.

REGISTER

Register to attend in person or online via Eventbrite.

(Online attendance tickets available from 15th Dec)