Amanda Haywood
Whaia i te kahurangi – Pursue what is important
My educational background
I bring over two decades of dedicated experience in specialist education supporting tamariki with complex learning needs and their kaiako. Currently working as a Resource Teacher Learning and Behaviour, I collaborate with educators and professionals to build capacity and understanding around working effectively with students with neurodiverse needs.
Working initially as a primary teacher for ten years both in Canterbury and the United Kingdom, my interest in moving into special education was ignited through early involvement with a satellite class and their inclusive teacher, setting me on a path that would shape my career.
My expertise spans a range of educational settings, including working in a Conductive Education Unit, a school for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, and numerous mainstream schools across the Christchurch and Selwyn regions.
Working as a joint coordinator of the SHINE team – a collective of ORS teachers working within schools throughout the greater Christchurch area – I led a collaborative team supporting students with the highest levels of need. My experience also extends to roles as an ORS verification coordinator and Behaviour and Learning Lead in a New Zealand-wide capacity, demonstrating national influence in the field.I have considerable experience with the ORS process and criterion requirements for students with the highest needs. My approach is grounded in ecological observations and comprehensive data gathering, ensuring that support strategies are both evidence-based and individually tailored. I have a Masters in Specialist Teaching in Complex Educational Needs (Distinction) and various other post graduate diplomas in education
My educational background
I bring over two decades of dedicated experience in specialist education supporting tamariki with complex learning needs and their kaiako. Currently working as a Resource Teacher Learning and Behaviour, I collaborate with educators and professionals to build capacity and understanding around working effectively with students with neurodiverse needs.
Working initially as a primary teacher for ten years both in Canterbury and the United Kingdom, my interest in moving into special education was ignited through early involvement with a satellite class and their inclusive teacher, setting me on a path that would shape my career.
My expertise spans a range of educational settings, including working in a Conductive Education Unit, a school for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, and numerous mainstream schools across the Christchurch and Selwyn regions.
Working as a joint coordinator of the SHINE team – a collective of ORS teachers working within schools throughout the greater Christchurch area – I led a collaborative team supporting students with the highest levels of need. My experience also extends to roles as an ORS verification coordinator and Behaviour and Learning Lead in a New Zealand-wide capacity, demonstrating national influence in the field.I have considerable experience with the ORS process and criterion requirements for students with the highest needs. My approach is grounded in ecological observations and comprehensive data gathering, ensuring that support strategies are both evidence-based and individually tailored. I have a Masters in Specialist Teaching in Complex Educational Needs (Distinction) and various other post graduate diplomas in education
My interests outside of work
Beyond my professional commitments, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends. I find joy in gardening which occupies many a Saturday afternoon. Hiking in the outdoors is another interest - I’m slowly working my way through New Zealand’s Great Walks. Now that my kids are starting to spread their wings, I'm also eyeing up some overseas adventures..
Beyond my professional commitments, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends. I find joy in gardening which occupies many a Saturday afternoon. Hiking in the outdoors is another interest - I’m slowly working my way through New Zealand’s Great Walks. Now that my kids are starting to spread their wings, I'm also eyeing up some overseas adventures..
Liaison Schools:
My educational passions and superpowers
An unwavering vision of equal opportunity for all tamariki. I strive to transform how educators understand and support students with complex learning needs – honouring a presumption of competence and focusing on student strength to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive. I also have a keen interest in ensuring students have access to the highest tier of support available, including ORS where appropriate.
An unwavering vision of equal opportunity for all tamariki. I strive to transform how educators understand and support students with complex learning needs – honouring a presumption of competence and focusing on student strength to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive. I also have a keen interest in ensuring students have access to the highest tier of support available, including ORS where appropriate.