Kathryn completed her MSc in Applied Behaviour Analysis at the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) in 2010. Following this she received her Board Certification as a Behaviour Analyst from the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board (BACB) in 2011. Kathryn also holds a psychology degree from NUIG (BA International; H.Dip Psych). Prior to joining the School of Inclusive and Special Education, Kathryn worked as an Educational Director in special schools, working collaboratively in the development of appropriate educational and behaviour support plans for pupils on the autism spectrum and co occurring needs. Teaching and research interests include teacher professional development, assessment and evidence informed practice in autism classes and special schools. Kathryn is currently the Programme chair of the Graduate Certificate in the Education of Pupils on the Autism Spectrum in the School of Inclusive and Special Education. Kathryn is also a PhD candidate at the Department of Disability, Inclusion and Special Needs ( DISN) at the University of Birmingham under the supervision of Dr. Lila Kossyvaki and Professor Karen Guldberg focusing on the area of education standards and competencies for teachers working with pupils on the Autism Spectrum and Intellectual Disabilities