Emily Neal

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About

I am an independent educational expert specialising in paediatric brain injury, catastrophic injury, and complex educational needs. Through EncompassNow, I support children and young people whose education has been significantly affected by injury, illness, or additional needs.

With over twenty years’ experience across both mainstream and specialist education, I provide informed, practical support to ensure educational provision is appropriate, consistent, and aligned with long-term development and future independence.

Professional Background

My experience spans:

  • Mainstream education

  • Specialist educational provision

  • Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

  • Complex educational needs

  • Educational reintegration following injury

This breadth of experience enables me to provide balanced, informed educational insight in complex cases.

Professional Approach

My work is guided by:

  • Specialist educational expertise

  • Evidence-based assessment

  • Independent professional judgement

  • Collaborative working with legal and rehabilitation professionals

I work closely with case managers, therapists, educators, and legal teams to ensure educational provision is appropriate, effectively implemented, and responsive to each child’s needs.

Academic & Professional Qualifications

I hold a range of qualifications that underpin my work:

  • Nursing Diploma, University of Leeds

  • BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS, University of Northumbria

  • MSc Psychology, University of Northumbria

  • MA Autism, University of Northumbria

  • Bond Solon Registered Expert Witness, Cardiff University

I have also completed specialist training, including:

  • SEND Law Professional Level 3 (IPSEA)

  • Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (University of York)

This training supports my ability to provide informed, practical, and compassionate guidance to children, families, and professionals.

A circular badge with a red background and black text at the top that reads 'Cardiff University' and 'Bond Solon' at the center. The badge states that it is a 'Civil Expert Witness Certificate' achieved in 2023, with a faint outline of Lady Justice with scales behind the text.
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