A FORMER Greenwood Academy pupil and Additional Supports Needs (ASN) teacher has had her first ever book published.

Written by Kilmarnock-based author Karen Watson, the book titled ‘Good Autism Practice for Teachers: Embracing Neurodiversity and Supporting Inclusion’ was released earlier last month by Critical Publishing.

The new book offers an accessible guide for all trainees and teachers working in the field of ASN providing practical, evidence-informed ways to support neuro-divergent learners that will also benefit all pupils.

Ms Watson said: “During my teacher training, I realised that as ASN teaching practices were constantly evolving, there really was a gap in the market for a concise book to give accessible, easy-to-read guidance for some extra reassurance that I was doing the right thing by my learners.

“I’ve always dreamed of writing my own book from a young age, so after spending the last decade working with children, young people and other ASN professionals across different local authorities, I realised that I could combine my experience and practical know-how alongside academic research together into a supportive learning resource.

“The teaching and education facilities and standard of practice for ASN pupils in North Ayrshire are of such high quality and my experiences within the Council have been very positive ones.

“The children and young people I have worked with are of course a wonderful bunch too! I think once you’ve lived and worked in Ayrshire, it’s hard to settle for anywhere else.”