Alison graduated from the University of Teesside, Middlesbrough (UK), with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and holds an MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of East London (UK). She qualified as a teacher in the UK and is a qualified International Special Educational Needs Coordinator (ISENCO). Alison is also a certified Autism Specialist through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and has additional qualifications in Sandplay and Symbolwork Therapy (Australia).
Alison began her career in the UK and has worked across all key stages in a variety of roles, supporting children and young people aged four to nineteen with diverse strengths and needs. This breadth of experience has given her a deep understanding of child development and the importance of building strong foundations for lifelong learning and wellbeing. She first worked in schools as a teaching assistant before gaining further qualifications in teaching and psychology. Throughout her career, she has worked as a teacher, social-emotional counsellor, assistant psychologist and educational leader in both the UK and internationally.
Alison champions a neuro-affirming, strengths-based and child-centred approach to education. She is a passionate advocate for inclusion and has contributed to regional and international advocacy initiatives throughout her career. She has a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent children and their families and values strong partnerships between home and school. Alison believes that children learn best when they feel safe, understood and connected. As a teacher, she measures success holistically, recognising the importance of academic, social and emotional growth. Her classroom is a place where every child feels welcome, valued and empowered to be themselves.
Originally from the beautiful county of North Yorkshire, England, Alison has spent more than a decade living and working in Southeast Asia, including roles in Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia. She is delighted to have rejoined Dover Court, where she previously worked from 2014 to 2018 in teaching, counselling and leadership positions. Now a busy mother of two young children, Alison is looking forward to another exciting year with the Pathway 3 team as a Primary Class Teacher.
In her spare time she enjoys reading, spending time in nature and baking for her family.
