We are delighted to welcome Samantha as an ambassador for Teach Us Too.

Samantha's passion for inclusive literacy, combined with her belief in the potential of every learner, makes her a wonderful addition to our ambassador team. Her work reflects many of the principles that underpin Teach Us Too: high expectations, meaningful access to learning, and a determination to ensure that no child is written out of literacy because of how they communicate. We feel incredibly fortunate to have her insight, enthusiasm, and support behind our mission.

As Assistant Headteacher at a SEND school in Dawlish, I am passionate about ensuring that every child has the right to read, and that every teacher has the responsibility to teach reading well. Working with non-verbal and pre-verbal learners has shown me that reading is not dependent on speech. Children communicate in many different ways, and with the right adaptations, every learner can access phonics, develop literacy, and find their own voice.

In my work, I advocate for inclusive approaches to phonics teaching and assessment that recognise and value alternative forms of communication, including AAC, signing and symbol-supported learning. I believe literacy is fundamental to independence, dignity, and opportunity, particularly for children with SEND. By adapting teaching methods and expectations, we can ensure that all children are given the chance to succeed as readers, regardless of how they communicate.

As an Ambassador for Teach Us Too, I am committed to challenging misconceptions around non-verbal learners and championing a more inclusive education system where every child’s progress is recognised, respected, and celebrated.