Postgraduate research students

Lauren has experience of conducting qualitative research within the United Kingdom. Her research highlights the importance of inclusion and of reframing attitudes towards autism. To date, Lauren's research has concerned:

• Effective support for autistic secondary school students in mainstream school.
• The effects of social issues for autistic students in mainstream education.
• Autistic and non-autistic friendships.

Lauren's current doctoral study focuses on the views and experiences of autistic people in alternative provision settings in England. There is an emphasis on the curriculum and wellbeing within these settings. Reintegration to mainstream school is another key aspect of this research.

Lauren has published blogs with The PhD Place. These focus on her experiences of wellbeing as an autistic postgraduate researcher. In 2024, Lauren won the 'Love Letter to My Thesis' competition run by the University of Glasgow. 

Lauren's published poetry collection - Tick Tock: It's Time to Listen, details her experiences of navigating the education system. She has also contributed to Dr Harriet Axby's book - University: The Autistic Guide. Additionally, Lauren has produced a chapter for a book based on SEND and Leadership, which is scheduled to be published in 2026. Lauren is currently writing for a book publication on growing up as an autistic person and developing a chapter for a book titled 'Neurodivergent Education and Lifelong Learning: From Babble to Later Life'.

• Dr Rebecca Wood
• Dr Christine Mckee
• Professor Nicki Hedge

In 2024, Lauren presented at the Education Studies Postgraduate Research Conference with the University of Warwick. 

Lauren has experience of delivering talks based on her lived experience to numerous audiences including schools, universities, The Autism Show in Birmingham and A Fest Online. 

Lauren has attended several conferences on autism and education. Topics have included mental health, trauma, outdoor learning and alternative provision. She has attended conferences with speakers including Dr Temple Grandin, Sarah Hendrickx, Tony Attwood and Dr Stephen Porges.

In 2019, Lauren founded A Different Perspective Community Interest Company, a community group supporting autistic people and their families in England. She organises regular social outings and delivers autism training to various audiences.