What am i focussed on right now ...

Beyond the Classroom | My PhD Journey

As a mum of a non-speaking autistic child and a special education teacher, I've experienced the education system from both sides — as a parent advocating for my child and as a teacher supporting children and their families.

These experiences have shaped my passion for understanding the educational journeys of non-speaking autistic learners across Aotearoa New Zealand.

It's also what led me to pursue my PhD, exploring the choices families make about their children's education, the challenges they encounter along the way, and how these experiences influence parental confidence, stress and wellbeing.

I know firsthand that finding the right educational environment isn't always straightforward. There are difficult decisions, unexpected challenges, moments of frustration, and also people and experiences that make a real difference.

Through my studies, I hope to deepen my understanding of these journeys and contribute to conversations about how we can better support non-speaking autistic children and their whānau.

Here at Bravique, I'll occasionally share personal reflections, things I'm learning, and thoughts about education, inclusion and advocacy along the way.