AMANDA HICKS
ACCREDITED SOCIAL WORKER & LEARNING SPECIALIST

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

I have completed 7 university degrees in social work and education with my research into working memory and reading resulting in the RIP IT UP Reading Program. I am passionate about disability rights, especially in schools.

Not only have my staff and I assisted over 10,000+ individuals with severe reading difficulties and disabilities learn to read, I have also been involved in educating and supervising undergraduate and postgraduate students through their studies. I have 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.

Over 29 years in Education in Primary, Secondary and Tertiary settings.

University Supervisor

University Lecturer

Educational Consultant

Reading Specialist

Learning Specialist

Accredited AASW Social Worker

I have 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.

QUALIFICATIONS

Master of Social Work, CSU

Master of Philosophy (Education Research), UON

Master of Educational Studies, QUT

GradCert Mental Health SCU

Bachelor of Arts, UON

GradDipEducation, CSU

GradCertTESOL, UNE

Languages: English & Japanese

WHO WE ARE

Our Teachers

Bridey Young
Manager & Social Worker

I am Bridey and I am a dedicated and compassionate registered 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 strengethened my passion for empowering children and families reach their full potential and I am thrilled to be supporting the families and children at RIUR.