A lot has changed since we started our Communication Friendly blog so we thought it is about time we update information on who we are.

We are a group of teachers in Scotland who are passionate about the importance of inclusion and ensuring that communication is appropriate and effective for all. We worked through the pandemic to ensure that the information from the governments was more accessible. We also created a substantial amount of free visualised resources and packs for families and teachers to use.

Over my teaching career, I worked in mainstream nurseries and primaries before moving into the ASN sector where I taught secondary pupils. I then moved to become a Support for Learning Teacher. I have a particular interest in autism; communication, building relationships  and improving the world by pulling down barriers to communication and learning. I have an Autistic son who has taught me more than any book or course ever could!

I now work in a mainstream secondary as part of a Language and Communication Support Centre. I am also PT of Inclusion in Practice where I support my school with adapting the environments to become more Inclusive Friendly. I love my job and wholeheartedly believe that inclusion is about adapting environments rather than changing children/young people. I have a firm belief that real inclusion means that these adaptations become standard practice for all. I have recently discovered the joy of Cold Water Therapy so when I am not working, spending time with my family or creating visuals, I can be found in a waterfall!!

I have worked in education as a nursery teacher, a primary teacher, a Support for Learning Teacher and I am now working as a class teacher in a Glasgow ASN school. In my various roles I have supported children (and their families) from birth to upper primary school. I particularly enjoy working with families and building relationships. I have a keen interest in early years and the importance of recognising behaviour as communication. I have continued being part of the Communication Friendly Team because I want to support parents, teachers and others in adapting environments to be nurturing and inclusive places for children to live, learn and thrive.

In my free time (haha!!), my healthy hobbies include jogging and walking my dog! Frances has also introduced me to the joy of waterfalls and outdoor swimming.

I have worked in Early Years for most of my teaching career before beginning my job as a Support for Learning Teacher. I love the variety our job brings and being able to work with pupils, parents and teachers to provide the best support for the children and young people we work with. I have a keen interest in supporting teachers in adapting and using their environments to be more inclusive for all learners. I am Mum to three young boys and I enjoy time at the gym, going to the cinema and spending time with my family.

We will be updating soon with some exciting news about a new adventure we are starting!!