I’m Ali *enter wave here* I was a Primary School Teacher for 11 years, in amongst that time I was also SENDCO, curriculum lead in many subjects (Science, Computing, Humanities) as well as juggling all the other responsibilities that mainstream teaching threw my way (Eco-warriors, House Captain Leader, Newsletter/video club, School Social Media and Marketing…the list goes on).
Special Educational Needs and the different learning pathways taken by children, has been my passion for many years now. I am fascinated by how our brains work! Many lifetimes ago, I was dissuaded from pursuing an A-Level in psychology, and I have regretted it many times since. Instead I was led down a pathway of a more ‘solid’ science: Chemistry! But my passion for understanding how things work- specifically things found inside our heads- has only grown over the years.
Alongside my Qualified Teacher Status (with science specialism), I also hold a postgraduate qualification in Inclusion and other qualifications in: Autism, Attachment, Sensory Processing, Children who are Looked After and certain Play therapy techniques, such as LEGO Therapy and Time To Talk. I am continuously working to expand this list as I am genuinely invested in learning all I can to help those young people that I work with.
After the life-changing loss of our 2-year-old son to Meningitis, I knew I needed time to streamline my professional focus. I took a step back from the classroom and began working for a company that provided 1:1 bespoke learning for young people who could not access mainstream education. This allowed me to broaden my understanding of barriers to learning and dip my toes into the world that is…teenagers!
Here I am today, on the precipice of yet another career leap: back into the education system, but this time a specialist provision (but more on that later). I am continuously looking to educate myself and broaden my understanding of provision that can be provided to help those with barriers to learning. I FIRMLY believe that EVERY child has the right to an education and that that education should be bespoke to that learner.
I started Sendsitivity as a haven for those looking for advice and reassurance on their own SEND journey. The sad truth about the system here in the UK, is that many families experience a certain level of trauma before the needs of their young people are met. Having somewhere to ask questions, make the dark-humoured jokes that keep us going and feel valued is important. I hope -for some- this may be that space.
The name sprang from my love of word play, and the message I want to convey through my work: SEND is a sensitive subject, it is a hard journey for many and empathy is key! Also- sensory play is one of my special interests, so that feeds in nicely too :).
WELCOME!
Sendsitivity 