Exploring inclusive education through the lens of a student’s lived experience
From A Different Brilliant by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)
February 4, 2026 · 32 min · Season 5
About this episode
Eliza Tait shares her lived experience as a twice-exceptional autistic student to discuss the importance of inclusive education.
In this powerful episode of A Different Brilliant, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Eliza Tait, a recent Year 12 graduate, disability advocate and former Deputy Premier of the New South Wales Youth Parliament to explore what inclusive education truly looks like from a student’s perspective. Drawing on her lived experience as a twice-exceptional autistic student, Eliza shares her journey through public, private and specialist education settings, reflecting on the challenges of diagnosis at age 14, burnout, mental health struggles and navigating different school systems. The conversation also delves into Eliza’s advocacy and policy work, including her time as the youth deputy premier. Eliza highlights the importance of co-design, student voice and universal design for learning, challenging decision-makers to rethink outdated structures that prioritise compliance over genuine learning. With insight, compassion and clarity, this episode is a compelling call to action for educators, policymakers, parents and young people alike — reminding us that inclusive education is not about one-size-fits-all solutions, but about listening, adapting and ensuring every student feels safe…
People in this episode
Host: Madeleine Jaine Lobsey
Guest: Eliza Tait
Topics covered
- inclusive education
- student perspective
- disability advocacy
- mental health
- co-design
- universal design for learning
Keywords
- inclusive education
- autistic student
- disability advocate
- mental health
- co-design
- universal design for learning
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: New South Wales Youth Parliament, Autism Spectrum Australia
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- Creating inclusive recruitment practices for Autistic people · May 4, 2026 · 42 min
- Thriving Kids: A conversation with Minister Jenny McAllister · April 14, 2026 · 40 min
- AI's role in the future of inclusive classrooms · March 30, 2026 · 40 min
- Eye care for Autistic people · March 2, 2026 · 33 min
- Autistic experiences of pregnancy and birth · January 12, 2026 · 37 min
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