I am a diversity expert with a specialism in autism. I have worked in the field of autism and education for over 20 years. I am passionate about autistic children, young people (CYP) and adults being heard, achieving their goals and living their best lives. In summary, this has included:

• Teaching Art, Religious Education and Design Technology in mainstream and special schools.

• Being a specialist resource provision leader for autistic CYP and those with speech, language, and communication needs.

• Managing a team of specialist staff (teachers and SEN practitioners) across a district and being the county lead for school-age autistic CYP.

• Delivering continuing professional development to Communication and Interaction Specialist Teachers across Kent.

• Leading a team of specialist staff (teachers and SEN practitioners) across the London borough of Newham to provide support and training to staff and parents.

• Writing and presenting autism training for parents and educators.

• Supporting a problem-solving social group for autistic young people.

• Inviting parents of autistic CYP to autism acceptance events in the London borough of Newham.

• Providing specialist input at Newham wide autism strategy meetings.

My Background

Qualifications

• EdD (Doctor of Education), thesis about home education and autism

• MA History of Art (dissertation comparing autism and neurodivergent accommodations at two major art galleries)

• PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status

• PG Certificate in Language and Communication