Despina is an accomplished education professional with extensive experience in inclusive education, language pedagogy, and curriculum development. She currently serves as Curriculum Lead for Foundation Learning, where she leverages her expertise to design and implement programs that support diverse learners and promote equitable access to education.
Despina holds two master’s degrees: an MA in Applied Linguistics and Communication from Birkbeck, University of London (2020–2022), and an MA in Inclusive Education from the University of Reading (2014–2015). Her academic background reflects a deep commitment to understanding language acquisition, intercultural communication, and strategies for meeting the needs of learners with diverse abilities. She also earned a BEd in Pedagogical Science from the University of Ioannina, Greece (2001–2005), which laid the foundation for her career in teaching and educational leadership.
Professionally, Despina has held key roles in both mainstream and supplementary education settings. She worked as an Assistant Teacher, supporting classroom management, individualized learning plans, and multicultural engagement. Previously, she served as Deputy Head Teacher and Classroom Teacher  in Primary schools, where she developed curriculum plans, managed e-learning platforms, and created digital content for educational delivery. Her experience also includes administrative work at the Education Office in London, where she contributed to bilingual projects and communications.
Fluent in English and Greek, with working knowledge of Spanish, Despina combines linguistic proficiency with strong technical skills in digital platforms and content creation. She is recognized for her creativity, attention to detail, and ability to foster inclusive learning environments that empower students to thrive academically and socially.

I’ve always believed that learning should be fun and inclusive,” Despina says. “When learners feel confident and engaged, they thrive—not just academically, but socially and emotionally.”
Today, that belief drives her mission: to provide parents and educators with practical tools, structured resources, and a supportive community that makes learning accessible for children and young adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Through this platform, Despina hopes to empower families and professionals to build independence, confidence, and social integration—one step at a time.
 

Marlena is a teacher, lecturer, therapist, and the Co-Founder and Director of the Understand Autism Foundation, deeply committed to understanding how children learn, develop, and experience the world around them. From the very beginning of her career, she has believed that education must be inclusive, holistic, and responsive to the individual needs of every child.
With over 15 years of professional experience, complemented by 5 years of intensive practice placements in leading educational and therapeutic settings, Marlena has worked across schools, colleges, and community environments in Poland, Italy, and London. She specialises in supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including autism and ADHD, always placing safety, dignity, and individual potential at the heart of her work.
Marlena holds a Master’s degree in Physical Education, which strongly informs her approach. As a qualified Bodybuilding and Fitness Instructor, she recognises the powerful connection between physical activity, emotional regulation, and mental wellbeing. This allows her to naturally integrate movement-based strategies into both education and therapy.
Her therapeutic practice includes Play Therapy and Massage Therapy, supporting children through sensory regulation, emotional expression, and trauma-informed care. Marlena understands that many children communicate best through play, movement, and body-based experiences rather than words alone.
Alongside her academic background in oligophrenopedagogy and autism understanding, Marlena has completed extensive specialist training in safeguarding, positive behaviour support, inclusion, and trauma-informed approaches. As a college lecturer, she also mentors and educates future professionals, consistently bridging theory with compassionate, real-world practice.
As Co-Founder and Director of the Understand Autism Foundation, Marlena leads the organisation’s vision and strategy, drawing on her international experience and therapeutic expertise to support autistic children, young people, and their families. Through the foundation, she focuses on building inclusive communities, raising awareness, and providing practical, accessible support for both parents and professionals.
“I truly believe that education, therapy, and movement must work together,” Marlena says. “When children feel understood in both their minds and bodies, they can grow—not only academically, but emotionally and socially.”
Today, Marlena’s mission is to create inclusive spaces, meaningful therapeutic experiences, and practical tools that empower children, families, and professionals. Through her work as an educator, therapist, movement specialist, and organisational leader, she continues to build confidence, independence, and connection—one step at a time.