I’m Amanda.
I work with care-givers of neurodiverse children, and the schools that support them, as they navigate the complex world of school support.
If your child is struggling at school, life can feel challenging for you, them and the school. It can be very hard to know what to do as a caregiver, or even, what the real issue is. Is our child “behaving badly”, or are they not very academically or socially adept? Or, are they neurodiverse, and communicating that the current environment is not set up to accommodate them?
There is often a painful period between when caregivers become aware that their child is struggling at school, and the time that a neurodiversity diagnosis is made.
The current thinking is that 15% of the population in school are neurodiverse, which is 4 to 5 children per classroom. The law requires that every teacher has to be able to teach children with special educational needs, and yet very few of them have had any proper training. That is, they’re being asked to do something they’re not properly equipped to do.
It is this reality - children needing a different approach or environment, under resourced schools, ill-equipped teaching professionals - that can cause so much angst for parents, children and schools.
We all want our children to enjoy school. Amanda works with caregivers of neurodiverse children, and the schools that support them, to find school support outcomes that enable children to thrive.
Ways we can work together
1
EHCP Services
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is for any child or young person that has a significant and complex Special Educational Need or Disability. An EHCP is required when a child’s needs cannot be met by the usual support that is available to them in their school or setting, and is made via an assessment process by a Local Authority.
Amanda helps parents to navigate the process of applying for an EHCP, via online learning, group support, and one-to-one support.
2
Advocacy Services
Are you dreading a meeting with a school and or a Local Authority?
Our children’s struggles often impact us emotionally, and it can be hard to successfully advocate for your child from that position. Amanda supports parents and caregivers who are needing to attend a meeting with their school or a Local Authority, and who feel they would benefit from a well-informed, supportive and experienced third party who can help them to effectively advocate for their child in the moment.
3
Speaking
Amanda provides a range of keynotes for caregivers and schools, on understanding neurodiversity and navigating that in the school system.
Amanda’s relaxed and friendly speaking style enables audiences to connect to the content, and leaves them with a greater understanding of the opportunities and obligations that exist in this space.
On the blog
