Diane Donaldson

I have been working in the EA Autism Advisory & Intervention Service since 2019 as an Autism Advisory Teacher. I have recently held roles as Interim Transition Leader and Interim Primary Phase Leader. Previously, I taught for 17 years in a Post Primary Special Needs school and held positions of Acting VP, Senior Teacher and Head of Department. I also have experience in mainstream settings and Learning Support Classes.

I am a member of the EA Critical Intervention Response Team.

I like to spend time with my family and explore everything that living at the foot of the Mourne Mountains has to offer-including some good coffee stops!. I have a keen interest in arts/music and hold a license to deliver Mental Toughness training & coaching in N. Ireland which has also been offered as part of the Lifelong Learning Programme at Stranmillis University College. I have participated in some voluntary leadership positions, such as President of the National Association of Special Education Needs in which I led and organised numerous conferences and study days in NI for educationalists, acted as Chair on a UK Advisory Board and represented NI as an Ambassador in Portugal.

I became a Mental Health & Wellbeing Champion, so as I could further support my colleagues and offer a listening ear, if required. I like to share information, events/news and resources from Health Well Hub, OD&L and Lunch & Learn events. I am very passionate about supporting the wellbeing of others and take great pleasure in helping colleagues to feel happy and valued.

“Our mind is enriched by what we receive, our heart by what we give” [Victor Hugo]