Staff Profile

Diana Seach

Contact details

Telephone: - 01243 812172

Email:- d.seach@chi.ac.uk

Location:- Room S1, St Michael's, Bognor Regis Campus

Role

Diana is a Senior Lecturer in Special Educational Needs and Early Years and Programme Co-ordinator for the National Award for Special Educational Needs Co-ordination

Experience

Diana taught in special education for 20 years where she specialised in working with children who have profound learning difficulties and autism. Diana has worked at the University as a part-time senior lecturer for 12 years, initially on the Childhood Studies programme and then on Initial Teacher Training, PGCE and MA Education programmes. She has particular interests in the role and status of play in early education, child development, teaching children with autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, contemporary issues in SEN and alternative educational arts and therapies. Diana is also programme co-ordinator for the National Award for SENCOs, working in partnership with local authorities to develop this training programme.

Interests

Since working at the University, Diana has also developed an international reputation as an education and family consultant in interactive play for children with autism and has worked in the Middle East, Nigeria, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. She is a published author, regularly presents at conferences and runs professional and parent workshops to promote the educational and therapeutic benefits of play and creativity for children with SEN/ disabilities. As a result of her work abroad, Diana has developed an interest in cultural perspectives on autism and disabilities and how culturally specific interventions can support children’s social inclusion and well-being.