Sarah is a Lecturer in Phonetics, Speech and Hearing Sciences within the Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences at Queen Margaret University.Â
- Overview
- Research Interests
- Teaching & Learning
With 20-plus years of extensive experience as a Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist (SLT), I am passionate about engaging in evidence-based interventions that enable children to develop a robust means of communication, participate to their full potential and find their voice. Over recent years, a substantial component of my practice has been supporting individuals with complex communication needs, additional support needs and disabilities using AAC and teaching and coaching those closest to the child in the use of approaches. I have had employment in NHS, Private Practice and undertaken some charity work, carrying out these roles face-to-face and also via telepractice.
In 2021, I delivered Peer Enhanced ePlacement with three other practice educators, for SLT students in the postgraduate programme.  Later that year, I joined the lecturing team in the Speech and Hearing Sciences Department, teaching Phonetics. My remit has expanded to include lifespan and I am also a member of the clinical placement team, sharing responsibility for supporting students in their clinical skills development. I strive to embed practical applications to the subjects I teach and supporting students to feel confident, comfortable and competent on their journey to becoming the SLTs of the future.
Affiliations
- Member of The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists
- Member of The Health and Care Professions Council
Active research interests:
- The impact of phonological difficulties on literacy acquisition
- The coaching role of a Speech and Language Therapist
- Professional development that leads to sustainable changes in face to face practice
My teaching predominantly covers phonetics, lifespan, and delivery of practice education through PEEP (Peer Enhanced ePlacement).