Tanja

I have over 27 years experience working across all areas of SEN, with relationship-building at the heart of my practice. I prioritise consistency, patience, and emotional attunement, taking time to understand each child’s communication style, interests and triggers. By creating a safe, predictable environment and responding calmly and respectfully, I establish trusting relationships that enable children to feel secure, understood and ready to engage with learning.

I have extensive experience supporting children with ASC across a range of settings, including SEN schools, college, and home-school tutoring. I am skilled in using structured routines, visual supports, clear expectations, and sensory-aware approaches to reduce anxiety and support regulation. I adapt my communication to meet individual needs and work flexibly to support social understanding, emotional regulation, and engagement. I am familiar with TEACCH, Attention Autism, PECS and use of Visual Timetables.

Supporting confidence and self esteem is central to my approach. I focus on celebrating progress, however small, and ensuring children experience success. I use positive reinforcement , clear praise, and achievable targets to help children develop a sense of pride in their learning. By valuing their strengths and interests, I help children feel confident, capable and motivated.

I specialise in creating engaging, child-centred sessions that build curiosity and enjoyment in learning. I incorporate play-based learning, practical activities, visual resources, and the child’s own interests to capture attention and maintain motivation. My sessions are structured yet flexible, allowing children to feel secure while remaining responsive to their needs and energy levels.

I am experienced in supporting children to develop independence through structured scaffolding and gradual release of support. I encourage children to make choices, follow routines, and complete tasks independently where possible. By teaching strategies for organisation, self- help, and problem-solving, I help children build confidence in their own abilities while maintaining appropriate support.