Speakers

Current role: Assistant Headteacher- Inclusion (SENCO & PP lead)

Qualifications: National SENCO award, CPT3A, M Ed, NPQH

Advisor Board member – Whole Education

Author: The Biggest Surprise, Jadon And the Talking Trains

Social media account: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taneisha-pascoe-matthews-5b72a3a7?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios

I have 24 years of experience in education, with a strong focus on helping young people reach their full potential, regardless of their starting points.  I earned my teaching qualifications in Jamaica, specialising in mathematics and Computer Science, and later pursued the National SENCO Award. As an aspiring headteacher of a special school, I recently completed the National Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

In 2013, when my first son was diagnosed as autistic, my career focus shifted toward advocacy and working with young people with special needs. I believe the educational experiences of many autistic children still fall short of the standard they deserve, which should provide them with a quality, dignified life. Over the past five years, I have presented at numerous conferences, often leading sessions on making reasonable adjustments for autistic children in mainstream education. I also share my family's journey, highlighting the challenges, differences, and strengths of my autistic children.