More about some the team!
Victoria - founder and Director
With nearly 30 years as a teacher, I bring a wealth of experience alongside a genuine passion for supporting young people to thrive. I took time out of my career to raise my two daughters with my husband—an experience that continues to shape my understanding of family life and the balancing act many parents face.
Nine years ago, I co-founded a successful Alternative Provision in Cookham, Berkshire, creating a supportive and flexible environment for young people who need a different approach to learning. I am particularly passionate about working with neurodivergent students and their families, helping them rebuild confidence and reconnect with both the social and academic demands of education.
My approach is rooted in being trauma-informed, with a strong emphasis on empathy, understanding, and compassion. I recognise the complexities of modern life and strive to support each young person in a way that feels safe, respectful, and empowering.
Sian McDonald
I am the parent of two neurodivergent young men, and I am incredibly proud of the independent, self-aware adults they have become. Supporting them through very different sensory and communication needs has given me invaluable insight into the complexities of neurodiversity and education.
As both a SEND parent and experienced SENDCo, navigating the system is second nature. Over the past 30 years, I have worked as a Teacher, Local Authority Specialist Teacher and SENDCo across primary, secondary, and specialist settings.
My approach combines professional expertise with lived experience, underpinned by neurodivergent empathy and a strong commitment to equity. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference and have supported hundreds of young people to thrive.
Loki!
Our sidekick - always around for walks, cuddles and the odd treat, Loki is paramount to the support package that we offer!
About Athena coaching and education
coaching and mentoring
coaching and mentoring
coaching and mentoring
Qualified and experienced neurodiversity coaches here to support the child or family in navigating and understanding life through a person focused lens.
Understanding and flexible mentors to support young people in the home, at school or on our site. They guide and support in understanding the social world through mutual special interest
Qualified and experienced neurodiversity coaches here to support the child or family in navigating and understanding life through a person focused lens.
Understanding and flexible mentors to support young people in the home, at school or on our site. They guide and support in understanding the social world through mutual special interests. Additionally, qualified teachers can extend core subject content through 1:1 packages by qualified teachers.
School Consultancy
coaching and mentoring
coaching and mentoring
Skilled and experienced professionals, supporting schools in the creation of their own provision designed to help neurodivergent young people access mainstream school.
ehcp/diagnostic advice
coaching and mentoring
ehcp/diagnostic advice
Our advocacy is non-confrontational and focused on achieving calm, effective support for your child within the resources available. We help you clearly communicate your child’s perspective, including how sensory experiences and social communication differences can shape their daily life. We start with an assumption that schools and Local
Our advocacy is non-confrontational and focused on achieving calm, effective support for your child within the resources available. We help you clearly communicate your child’s perspective, including how sensory experiences and social communication differences can shape their daily life. We start with an assumption that schools and Local Authorities aim to help but may lack specialist training and knowledge to help their understanding. We take a “change the environment, not the child” approach, drawing on our years of experience as teachers, SENDCos and as nd parents ourselves to secure positive outcomes. We offer support through meeting attendance, staff and student training, EHCP applications and reviews, full cognition and learning assessments, and, where needed, advocating for appropriate changes in school placement.
Inspiring Athena coaching and education: A Gallery of Wonders!
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