When I look back at my time in school, I remember how hard it often felt to keep up. Being neurodivergent in a world that didn’t always understand felt like constantly running a race with your shoelaces tied together. But despite all that, there were some incredible teachers who made a lasting impact—who believed in me, even when I found it hard to believe in myself.
The first teacher who really stood out for me was Mrs Jones, my special needs teacher in primary school. She had known my dad since they were children, and I suppose in many ways that connection made me feel a little safer. In Year 6, our class went on a trip to Plas Glynllifon in Llandwrog to immerse ourselves in the Welsh language. It was meant to be a time of fun, learning, and independence—but I ended up getting an ear infection.
What could’ve been a lonely, uncomfortable experience turned into something quite different. Mrs Jones stayed with me overnight to keep an eye on me. The next morning, she’d arranged an appointment with a local doctor. I didn’t speak Welsh, and being in a predominantly Welsh-speaking area could’ve made things complicated—but she stepped in and advocated for me. She made sure I was seen, heard, and understood. That kind of care goes beyond teaching. That’s heart. That’s someone who sees you.
Later that day, my dad—who happened to be working near Bangor—picked me up. But I’ve never forgotten how she showed up for me when I needed someone most. She didn’t have to go to that extent, but she did.
Then came secondary school, and again, I had the support of some wonderful special needs teachers. They helped me navigate a system that wasn’t always built with children like me in mind. But it was my RE teacher who lit the spark in me. I don’t even know if she ever realised the impact she had—but she made me believe in myself.
She treated me with kindness, respect, and dignity, even on the days I struggled. Her lessons weren’t just about religion—they were about compassion, morality, and learning to think critically about the world around us. And because she believed in me, I slowly began to believe in myself too.
I hope she’s well. I still think of her now and again, especially when I see children who need just one adult to say, “I see you. I believe in you.”
To all the teachers out there supporting neurodivergent children, to the ones going the extra mile for the child who feels lost or left behind—thank you. You’re not just teaching. You’re changing lives.
Call to Action:
Did you have a teacher who changed your life? I’d love to hear about them. Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to like and subscribe to follow more stories that honour the unsung heroes in our parenting and educational journeys.
References and Further Reading:
• Plas Glynllifon – a historic estate in Llandwrog, Gwynedd, used for educational trips and immersive Welsh learning experiences.
• SEN Support in the UK – understanding the role of special educational needs teachers in primary and secondary education.
• The Importance of Teacher Advocacy – TES article on how advocacy shapes pupil outcomes.
Who was your most influential teacher? Why?
The bad and your parenting journey 