Meet Heather
A personal and professional understanding of SEND.
With over 20 years of experience in primary education, I have supported children with a wide range of SEND needs and helped families navigate the challenges that can come with mainstream education. Alongside my teaching experience, I trained with IPSEA as a SEND advocate and completed further training in Neurodivergent coaching
My work also comes from personal experience. When my own children began struggling in school, I found myself searching for guidance, understanding and support that simply wasn’t available. I understand how overwhelming the journey can sometimes feel. I know the emotional load families carry — the school meetings, the uncertainty, the exhaustion, the advocacy, and the constant worry about whether your child is truly being understood.
I offer calm, compassionate and practical support tailored to your child and your family as a whole. Whether your child needs mentoring, tutoring, emotional support, help rebuilding confidence around learning or support through diagnosis pathways, we work together to find a way forward. Every family is different. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Instead of fixed services, I create bespoke support packages designed around your child’s needs, your family circumstances and your goals.
My aim is simple: To help children feel safe, understood and able to thrive — while helping families feel supported and less alone.
Classroom Practice
With over 20 years of experience in mainstream primary education, I have worked closely with a wide range of professionals including SEN outreach teams, play therapists, pastoral support services and other therapeutic practitioners to support children with diverse needs.
During my teaching career, I was recognised for my outstanding classroom practice and selected to train with OLIVI as a facilitator supporting high-quality teaching practice across Poole. This role developed my skills in coaching, critical thinking, collaboration and leadership while supporting other educators in reflective and inclusive practice.
Alongside this, I continued to develop my experience as a middle leader, creating an engaging and inclusive learning environment and curriculum that promoted both academic progress and emotional wellbeing for all children.
Families often come to Bright Side SEND feeling exhausted, unheard or unsure where to turn next.
I provide experienced, compassionate support that meets children where they are — emotionally, academically and socially.
With a background spanning education, SEND support, children’s services and lived family experience, I understand both the professional systems and the real-life impact on home life.
Together, we create practical, manageable steps forward.
Further Education
Since leaving the classroom, I have continued to develop my knowledge and expertise in supporting children and families navigating SEND.
I completed IPSEA SEND Advocacy training, which focused on understanding SEND law and legal frameworks, supporting families to communicate effectively with schools and local authorities, and helping parents navigate EHCP processes and their child’s educational rights.
Alongside this, I gained accreditation in Neurodiversity Coaching, developing skills in strengths-based approaches, emotional regulation support and person-centred coaching strategies that empower neurodivergent children and young people to better understand themselves and build confidence.
I have also continued supply teaching with a particular focus on SEND placements, allowing me to experience a wide range of educational settings and deepen my understanding of the different ways children can be supported both emotionally and academically.
Why families choose Bright Path SEND
A calm and supportive approach for the whole family.