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AMANDA HICKS

ACCREDITED SOCIAL WORKER, LEARNING SPECIALIST & DISABILITY ADVOCATE


  • Master of Social Work, CSU
  • Master of Philosophy (Education Research), UON
  • Master of Educational Studies, QUT
  • Master of Human Rights, (current)
  • GradCert Mental Health, SCU
  • Bachelor of Arts, UON
  • GradDipEducation, CSU
  • GradCertTESOL, UNE
  • Languages: English & Japanese



A Woman In A Floral Dress Is Standing In Front Of A Door — RIP IT UP Reading in Maitland, NSW

With almost 30 years of experience in education in numerous roles, I'm a passionate educator and advocate for children, adolescents and adults with learning difficulties and disabilities. 

 

I have completed seven university degrees in social work and education with my research into working memory and reading resulting in the RIP IT UP Reading Program. I'm passionate about disability rights, especially in schools. 

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Not only have my staff and I assisted over 10,000 individuals with severe reading difficulties and disabilities learn to read, I've also been involved in educating and supervising undergraduate and postgraduate students through their studies. I've lectured to thousands of educators and health professionals across Australia & New Zealand on the importance of working memory to the learning process. I currently lecture in Disability Rights in Education.

 

I continue to support NGOs, DCJ, schools, conferences, seminars and individuals with research and evidence based knowledge and intervention.

 

I have over 29 years of experience within Education in Primary, Secondary and Tertiary settings—my roles have included:


  • University Supervisor
  • University Lecturer
  • Educational Consultant
  • Reading Specialist
  • Learning Specialist
  • Accredited AASW Social Worker

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I've been employing undergraduates from Newcastle University for over 20 years. Over 60 Education, Social Work & Speech and Language students have gained significant training in working with individuals with learning difficulties and disabilities, skills essential to their future career path.


OUR TEACHERS

a Woman is Smiling for the Camera While Wearing a Striped Shirt — RIP IT UP Reading in Maitland, NSW

Bridey Young, Manager & Social Worker


I am Bridey, a dedicated, compassionate and accredited Social Worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). With a strong background in child protection, I previously worked as a case worker, supporting vulnerable families and advocating for the well-being of children. My experience has only strengthened my passion for empowering children and families to reach their full potential and I'm thrilled to be supporting the families and children at RIUR.