Nominated for Hampshire Teacher of the Year 2024
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I have the disease. It doesn't have me.
Background
At the age of 21, my whole world was turned upside down when I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease whilst studying English and French Law at university.
In the immediate aftermath, I felt certain that my life would never be the same again. Today, I enjoy a busy and fulfilling life working part time as a secondary school teacher whilst raising my young family. I am passionate about raising awareness for invisible illnesses and advocating for inclusion in education and work.
Inspiring Speaker
An estimated 80% of disabilities are invisible. Stigma from others - often created by a lack of understanding - results in barriers in the everyday lives of people living with invisible illnesses. I aim to raise awareness and understanding for invisible illnesses to begin to break down these barriers.
My keynote presentation focuses on my health journey from diagnosis and accepting my condition and learning how to live an amazing life alongside managing my disease. My message is one of resilience, kindness and inclusion.
Equity versus Equality
With over ten years teaching experience, I am able to offer a range of engaging and creative student-facing presentations, assemblies and workshops to support the National Curriculum for PSHE:
- highlighting rights and responsibilities regarding equality, focussing on the protected characteristic of disability as defined in the Equality Act 2010
- demonstrating how stereotypes can cause damage and discrimination
- advocating for self-examination and screening
- promoting good physical and mental health
I foster an environment where all students understand the importance of advocating for equity versus equality. Students will take away clear and positive steps for inclusion in the school and wider community.
Strategies for Inclusion
Having successfully implemented a support system for students living with medical conditions, I offer CPD and consultancy to provide teachers and school leaders with effective strategies to meaningfully support and embed inclusion in their school setting.
Amy has an amazing way of sharing her personal story...her support of our spoonie students has had a profound impact and her workshop combines knowledge and information with great activities.
Secondary PSHE lead