I have worked with families, children and young people for over 25 years.
My connection with art started at an early age; I studied Art and Design at Middlesex University, obtaining a B.A. Hons degree and going on to qualify as a teacher of Art and Design and Special Educational Needs.
I started my teaching career in London, teaching in both mainstream secondary and special needs schools. In 1993 I moved to North Devon with my husband and continued to teach, working in schools and at Petroc college. For many years I worked at Pathfields school in Barnstaple, also working in the Pathway Unit for 11-16 year olds, supporting children affected by anxiety disorders. The training and experience gained from my time there has been invaluable.
I have worked with children from primary age through to young adults. My experience encompasses children affected by social/emotional problems and physical learning disabilities, and their families. In 2005 I set up “Magical Mosaics” running mosaic workshops for individuals, family groups and community projects. In 2020 I completed a Foundation course in Art Therapies with Insider Art, Exeter, focusing on uses of art to develop self-expression and healing. Positive mental health and the wellbeing of young people has always been at the forefront of what I strive to achieve and being a positive part of a young person’s journey is always a privilege.
I am very passionate about expressive art as a means of communication… it says the things we cannot always put into words, offers the opportunity to work in an attuned way and can be extremely empowering and fun!
I love nature and living in North Devon having access to the beautiful beaches and countryside is amazing. I am family orientated and enjoy spending time with my 2 now adult sons, my dog and my extended family network and friends.