Christina Johnston

Assistant SENCo & Head of Research, Thames Valley School

Christina Johnston is Head of Liberty Research School and a doctoral candidate at the University of East London. With a background in psychology and special education, she has also worked as therapy team lead within Thames Valley School with a focus on improving outcomes for autistic young people. Her research and practice centre on co-producing evidence-based approaches with pupils, families and professionals, ensuring that interventions enhance education, wellbeing and safeguarding.

1 Workshop series one

Safeguarding autistic children without speech

This workshop will explore how building relationships with autistic children, particularly those who do not use speech to communicate, is central to effective safeguarding. We’ll examine alternative approaches to capturing the voice of the child, and how these can inform safeguarding decisions and practice. The session will also highlight the importance of working collaboratively with families to develop a holistic understanding of each child’s needs, to create safe, inclusive, and responsive environments.