"My inspiration to be a DE stems from my experiences of supporting students with disability in special schools. "
What inspired you to pursue a career as a Developmental Educator?
My inspiration to be a DE stems from my experiences of supporting students with disability in special schools. I found it very rewarding to contribute to their education, however I also felt so much more needed to be done with respect to fostering their independence skills and inclusion in life. While initially studying a nursing degree in disability in my younger years, I later came across the ‘disability studies’ degree at Flinders University, which I found to fit beautifully with my own values and ethics that I had developed over the years. I thoroughly enjoyed my studies at Flinders University, and strongly believe in the skill set of DE’s to contribute meaningfully to the lives of people with disability and their families, and to work towards a good life.
What are the most rewarding aspects of being a Developmental Educator?
There have been different aspects which have been most rewarding. Initially it was the direct work and contact with young people with disability and their families/carers. I worked in the area of Positive Behaviour Support, which has a strong focus on quality of life, skill development and independence, and so being able to make a positive difference for the people I worked with was immensely rewarding. As my career progressed, I was fortunate to obtain a leadership and supervision position which enabled me to support, promote and grow the profession of Developmental Education within the disability sector. Outside of my professional role I was also involved with setting up the DEAI, initially as the Secretary and then for many years at Chair. Developing and fostering a professional identify among DE’s, and strongly driving advocacy for DE’s to be recognised as professionals with the NDIS were most rewarding aspects of this time, among many others.
What advice would you give to new Developmental Educators entering the field today?
My first bit of advice for new DE’s would be to hone their skills to confidently and succinctly articulate what the role of a DE is and to be familiar with the Scope of Practice. This will continue to build the knowledge and understanding of other professionals and the broader community about our profession. Secondly, I would
recommend new DE’s to network with each other and the DEAI to continue to foster the sense of belonging to a professional community and to further grow our professional identity as DE’s. Lastly, I would recommend for all DE’s to undertake professional development as well as supervision, to enable continued growth
through ongoing learning and reflective practice.
Do you have a favourite quote?
I don’t have a favourite quote however one of my favourite questions to ask as part of my work was “What do you enjoy?” So much valuable information can be gained from this question, which can form a basis to develop motivation, choice, participation, skill development, independence and so on.
What do you like to do for fun?
I am now retired so have lots of time for fun, which includes going to the gym and the outdoors, in particular hiking and camping.
