EwingSave the day for ‘Way to Play’!
Following very positive feedback from our conference last March, we are delighted to offer you a free introductory session about ‘Way to Play’, a programme based on the work of Autism New Zealand. The session, which takes place on Teams on 3rd December, 4-5.30pm, will be presented by Neil Stuart of Autism New Zealand, and Alison Taylor, a former lecturer at Lincoln Bishop University.
This event is for professionals working with autistic deaf children and young people in mainstream settings, resource provisions and specialist placements. Us teachers know that the needs presented by each deaf learner are unique and, with an additional diagnosis of autism, we fully recognise that an individual and holistic approach to support becomes essential. As Qualified Teachers of Deaf Children and Young People, we have the expertise in deafness; the presenters Neil and Alison have the expertise in working with autistic children. We rarely find professionals who have expertise in both areas.
Through this introduction to the principles of ‘Way to Play’ with very experienced practitioners in the field of autism, we have the unique opportunity to combine the two areas of expertise. We firmly believe that this will enable us to better support and positively influence short- and long-term outcomes for autistic deaf learners.
Further details to be announced in mid-October 2026. Please contact us if you would like to be notified when bookings open.
Neil will be back in the UK during April, May and June 2027, and will be offering face-to-face sessions to local Sensory Teams and their colleagues in aligning SEND teams. If you would like further information about dates and fees, please contact Neil by email at experiencethejoyofplay@gmail.com .
More about our speakers
Neil Stuart has over 30 years’ experience in the field of autism. He has developed a number of Ministry of Education-funded Autism Education programmes that have been delivered nationally. He developed the ‘Way to Play’ approach along with his colleagues. Neil has involved parent groups, and autistic adults to help in the development of his education programmes. Neil has presented talks nationally and internationally, including the Australia and Pacific Autism Conference. He is committed to providing a playful, joyous approach with autistic children, which promotes high quality and engaging experiences.
Alison Taylor has taught on the BA(Hons) SENDI Degree Programme, having previously held positions within educational and advisory settings. Alison presented to the 13th Autism-Europe International Congress (2022) and the Advance Higher Education Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Conference (2023). Alison has had a keen interest in Autism New Zealand’s ‘Way to Play’ programme since 2020 and invites Neil to speak in Lincoln whenever he visits these shores! Alison is committed to changing practice through collaboration, for improved wellbeing and inclusion.