About Great Expectations Education
I’m Joanna — a neurodivergent SEN teacher, SpLD specialist, and parent coach with over 20 years’ experience supporting children with additional needs.
As a qualified specialist teacher for dyslexia, dyscalculia, and autism, I provide practical, evidence-based support for students, families, and schools. My background includes nine years as a secondary English teacher, plus advisory work as Lead English Teacher for Gloucestershire Local Authority.
I hold postgraduate qualifications in Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD), and I’m accredited at Level 5 for dyscalculia. I’m also a registered PATOSS member and hold an up-to-date DBS certificate.
As a parent of four children with SEND — including autism, dyslexia, and Williams Syndrome — I understand the realities families face. That lived experience shapes my work as both a teacher and parent coach, especially in areas like EHCP support, study skills, and home learning.
Outside of teaching, I coordinate a local parent support group, serve as a school governor, and sit on the Professional Advisory Panel for the Williams Syndrome Foundation.
Qualifications
BA (Hons) Linguistics with English Language, University of Wales, Bangor (2002)
PGCE Secondary English, University of Wales, Bangor (2003)
MA Inclusive Education, University of Gloucestershire (2011), including:
– Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate in SpLD
– AMBDA (Associate Member of the British Dyslexia Association)
Level 5 Dyscalculia Specialist Teacher, OCN-accredited via the Dyscalculia Association
PATOSS Teaching Certificate (renewed every 3 years)
Accredited Trainer, Reading and Language Intervention for Children with Down Syndrome (Down Syndrome International)