Prior to starting her PhD, Amanda had been a teacher for 19 years. During her career she taught in mainstream primary and secondary schools, special schools, and alternative provisions. In her last school she was a SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), and previously ran an autism provision in a mainstream secondary school.
Amanda is an experienced autism speaker, trainer and consultant, having travelled across the country to deliver talks and training sessions on a wide variety of topics to a range of attendees, including parents and professionals from education, health and the care sector. She has also presented her postgraduate research findings internationally.
Amanda is particularly interested in the experiences of autistic women and girls, especially those who received a late diagnosis. She is also keen to explore the impact of intersectionality on marginalised groups. Her MSc Psychology research project explored the experiences of Black and Black mixed-heritage late-diagnosed autistic women, including Amanda herself. Amanda's previous postgraduate research looked at effective transition from primary school to secondary school for autistic children.
Amanda holds a BA (Hons) in Education Studies and English Literary Studies; a PGCE in Primary Education; a PG Cert in Special Educational Needs, and the NASENCo Award (National Award for Special Educational Needs Coordination); a PG Cert in Autism Spectrum Conditions and Learning; a PG Dip in Practitioner Research in Education; an MTeach (Master of Teaching); and an MSc in Psychology. She also holds graduate membership of the British Psychological Society (GMBPsS).
In October 2023, Amanda won the Diversity Award at the University of East London Alumni Achievement Awards.
