Sarah Chapman

Who I am

 

My name is Sarah Chapman. I am 31 and a very different person to who I used to be. I am currently based in the heart of the UK where I am finally finishing my degree at the University of Derby. I study Education with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) with a specific focus on Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs). I am a national Campaigner, Social Entrapaneur, Public Speaker and also a mother of two.

 

I am a proud dyslexic and dedicate my life to empowering and inspiring people who's brains are wired differently, have physical disabilities or impairments and/or Mental Health challenges. I have a deep rooted interest in the field of dyslexia in particular but I aim to tackle a range of issues which relate to all aspects of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities as categorised by the Equality Act (2010).

I am also very proud to be the:

 

Winner of the Positive Role Model for Disability Award  (National Diversity Awards, 2014)

Winner of the University of Derby Student Union Equality and Diversity Award (2014)

Winner of the University of Derby Student Union's Volunteer of the year Award (2014)

Winner of the East Midlands Regional Adult Learners Week Award (2012).

 

Why I do this

 

Not long ago I was living in poverty petrified of being a failure for my unborn baby. I was written off by the education system and my parents, I was deeply unhappy and honestly believed that I would never amount to anything! I jumped well and truly on the rebellion train throughout my education and left feeling worthless with nothing to show for my time there but a lifetime of utter frustration.

 

My education was one which can only be described as wasted as I had thrown away the opportunity at school to make something of myself (or so I thought). Following a spell in care I was rebellious and determined to make things difficult for myself. I thought that I was stupid! Much of my time in school was spent in the isolation room with my teacher’s harsh words echoing through my mind, “YOU will never amount to anything!” I was really interested in the subjects, but I opted to act like the class clown in order to hide the embarrassment of what turned out to be ‘just’ dyslexia, something that has become one of my most treasured strengths.

 

I have battled hard with my confidence and self-esteem over the last few years, fought against the model of disability that suggests that I am disabled and therefore cannot achieve and fought hard to become the person I always knew I was inside. I have given my life to improve the lives of those around me and plan on spending the rest of my life battling for change. Everyone deserves to be happy and I make it my mission to give those people struggling a voice to be heard.

 

What I can do for you

 

Get in touch if you would like me to send you information about 'my learning journey' with the aim of speaking at your organisation, event or in your school. I am also happy to be involved in projects that involve raising awareness, empowering individuals, educating and inspiring anybody that needs a helping hand to see their potential.  

 

I  am in the process of setting up my business which we will launch during the summer and will be addressing a range of SEND issues through a series of regional, national and international events. We will also be providing customised CPD awareness courses so please do get in touch if you wish to discuss your individual needs and requirements.