Local learner credits HTAE course with improving confidence, understanding and everyday family life
A Hull parent and primary school worker is using new skills gained through a Hull Training and Adult Education (HTAE) course to better support both her children and pupils with additional needs.
Katie Wall recently completed the Neurodiversity course delivered at her local family hub, Rainbow Family Hub, celebrating her achievement alongside fellow learners at a certificate presentation event.
The course, delivered by tutor Donna Ackroyd, is designed to help parents, carers and professionals build a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, including -
- autism
- ADHD
- dyslexia
- dyspraxia
It provides practical strategies to support communication, behaviour and emotional regulation in everyday situations.
Katie joined the course for both personal and professional reasons. As a parent of two children with additional needs and someone working in a school environment, she recognised the importance of developing her knowledge and confidence.
“I’m here for both professional and personal reasons,” she said. “My son is 14 and has autism and ADHD, and my daughter, who’s five, is showing signs of ADHD. I also work in a primary school where I support children with SEND, so this course really stood out to me.”
Katie had previously completed parenting courses, but said this programme felt especially tailored and highly relevant to her day-to-day life.
Throughout the course, learners explored a range of topics, from understanding how neurodiverse minds work to developing simple, practical techniques that can be used at home, in school and in the community.
For Katie, the biggest impact has been the ability to recognise behaviours earlier and respond more effectively.
“I’ve taken so much from this course - it’s my everyday life,” she said. “It’s the simple things, like changing how you communicate and recognising behaviours before they reach crisis point. It’s about building your toolbox, staying calm and being prepared.”
She also highlighted the importance of shared experiences and peer support during the programme, helping to build confidence and reinforce that she was not alone.
“The support and understanding you get from others on the course is really valuable. You learn so much from each other as well as from the tutor.”
Tutor Donna Ackroyd, who leads the programme, focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where learners feel comfortable sharing their experiences while gaining practical, real-life strategies.
Katie believes the knowledge she has gained is already making a difference, both at home and in the classroom.
“It’s helped me understand my children - and others - so much better. I’m already using what I’ve learned every day, both at home and at work.”
She is also passionate about raising awareness and breaking down misconceptions around neurodiversity.
“I would 1000% recommend this course. I think one of the biggest issues in society is a lack of understanding, and this course really helps change that.”
Hull Training and Adult Education’s Neurodiversity course forms part of its wider Family Learning offer, supporting adults to build skills, confidence and knowledge while improving outcomes for children and families.
By combining expert teaching with peer support, the programme empowers learners to better understand behaviours, create supportive environments and advocate for the needs of neurodivergent children.
Katie’s experience highlights the real-life impact of this approach - enhancing both her professional practice and her ability to support her own family.
Learners completing the course recently received their certificates in recognition of their achievements, marking an important milestone in their learning journey.
As Katie continues to apply her learning, she hopes others will take the opportunity to get involved.
“It’s made such a difference to me. I’d encourage anyone in a similar position to give it a go - you get so much out of it.”
More information about our Family Learning courses.
Pictured is learners from one of Hull Training and Adult Education’s Neurodiversity courses, delivered at Rainbow Family Hub, Walker Street, Hull, collecting their certificates.