Not because I want to fix them — but because I've learned that underneath every child who is struggling, there is almost always a strength waiting to be found.
My journey into this work began simply: I love children. I always have. Over thirty years, that love has taken me from nurseries in London to primary schools, from special needs classrooms to family support programmes — always gravitating towards smaller groups, one-to-one work, the quiet conversations where real change happens.
Early in my career, during a placement in a children's home in Germany, I worked with a young boy whose development had been set back by early childhood trauma. Rather than focusing on what he couldn't do, I looked for what he could. He loved to draw. We started there. Gradually, his confidence grew, his anxiety settled, and he began to catch up — not because anyone pushed him, but because someone had finally seen him.
That experience shaped everything that followed.
I understand this world from two sides.
As a professional, I spent years as a Learning Mentor in London schools, supporting children with ADHD, autism, and complex emotional needs. I worked alongside SENCOs, attended multi-agency meetings, and sat with parents who didn't know where to turn.
And then, as a parent, I found myself on the other side of that table.
My son has ADHD and autism. Navigating the system — the appointments, the assessments, the letters, the meetings, the moments of being told to wait — taught me things no training course ever could. I know what it feels like to fight for your child. I know how exhausting and lonely it can be. And I know that with the right support alongside you, things can change.
Watching my son grow, with the help of consistent collaboration between family, teachers, therapists and support groups, into the young man he is today — that is my greatest proof that this work matters.
What I offer
I work as a mentor with children, a coach with parents, and a navigator through the complex systems that surround families with additional needs. Whether your child has a diagnosis or you're still searching for answers — I am here to walk alongside you.
I am bilingual in English and German, trained in Makaton sign language, and have specific experience with adoption, attachment, and all major transitions from early years through to further education.
My approach is always the same: I look for the strengths first. I listen before I speak. And I stay alongside you for as long as you need.
Training, Education & Qualifications
Academic Qualifications
- BA (Hons) Education Studies — University of Greenwich
- Certificate in Supporting Young People (Masters level, 20 credits) — Canterbury Christ Church University
- Diploma in Nursery Nursing (Fachschule für Sozialpädagogik, Hamburg)
- Diploma in Childcare (Berufsfachschule für Kinderpflege, Hamburg)
Professional Training
- Webster Stratton Incredible Years Parenting Programme — Coram, London
- National Induction Training for Learning Mentors
- Attachment Theory Parts 1 & 2 — Isaac Newton Professional Centre
- Mentor Training — Westminster Council
- Transition Training KS2 to KS3
- Wave 3 Numeracy Training
- Portage Early Years Conference
Specialist Skills
- Makaton Sign Language
- Bilingual — English and German (native)
- SEND navigation and EHCP processes
- Adoption and attachment (Coram trained)
- Safeguarding and child protection
Experience
- 30+ years working with children and families
- Learning Mentor in London primary schools
- Support staff for children with autism
- Nursery and early years specialist
- Multi-agency and SENCO collaboration
- Personal experience navigating the SEND system as a parent