Mrs Cunningham – Learning Coach


Cunningham, PaulaI left North Warwickshire College in 1983 with a City & Guilds and International Health & Beauty Council Diploma clutched tightly in my hands and headed into a career in the health & beauty industry where I stayed for a number of years progressing to management level. It wasn’t until I had my 2 wonderful children in the 1990s and spent some time at home with them that I began to contemplate a change in career and got a thirst for studying. 

Firstly it was ICT, followed by British Sign Language and Makaton courses. Next it was courses relating to downs syndrome, visual impairment, dyslexia, dyspraxia, ASD and ADHD. I felt like a sponge soaking it all up. I was hooked! At the same time I had been offered a position with the integrated learning support service, visiting different schools and offering support for children with special needs, often very diverse and complex needs. 

Fifteen years ago I was offered another position in a primary school supporting children with ASD.  More studying ensued too. I undertook a 2 year course in supporting individuals with ASD in a mainstream setting through Birmingham University. I really thought I had found a position I would stay in until I retired……… that was until I walked through the doors of XP School!!

I had been invited to visit to undertake the transition of a pupil, and having been ‘blown away’ by what I saw and heard I knew without any doubts whatsoever I wanted to make that transition too, and here I am, honoured to be part of the XP Crew. I absolutely love it!!!