Sensory Integration Education

Written by Tanya Oliver, 2025 Winner of the Dr Greg Kelly Award for the MSc Certificate in Sensory Integration: Outstanding Student of the Year

Winning the Dr Greg Kelly Award for Outstanding Student of the Year has allowed me to reflect on both my professional journey and the learning experiences that have shaped my practice.

This article shares highlights of the journey I’ve been on studying for the MSc in Sensory Integration and how this decision has influenced my clinical confidence, understanding and future aspirations.

I love my role as an Occupational Therapist. It is satisfying to carry out assessments and interventions that support people in improving their everyday functioning and quality of life. Throughout my time working in the NHS and then a large mainstream secondary school, I recognised that neurodiverse individuals often have sensory processing problems and difficulties accessing their occupations and education. This is the reason I decided to undertake an MSc in Advancing Practice in Sensory Integration.

Throughout my time working in the NHS and then a large mainstream secondary school, I recognised that neurodiverse individuals often have sensory processing problems and difficulties accessing their occupations and education. This is the reason I decided to undertake an MSc in Advancing Practice in Sensory Integration. 

My journey started with Modules 1 to 3 with SIE. The modules were well set out and easy to follow. There were times I needed additional support in understanding information especially around the neuroscience behind sensory processing. However, each and every time, there was someone on hand to support and guide me. Allocated tutors were approachable, friendly and experienced. My favourite part of the learning portal was the online coffee shop. This allowed me to engage with other practitioners on the course and we were able to discuss the modules, answer questions and reassure each other as well as talk about activities and assessments we needed to complete.

During the course we learnt how to assess sensory processing difficulties as well as how to design and implement individualized therapeutic interventions. These are paramount in being able to use structured activities, movement and environmental accommodations to help children and adults process sensory information more effectively and improve daily functioning, coordination and behaviour. 

My favourite part of the learning portal was the online coffee shop. This allowed me to engage with other practitioners on the course and we were able to discuss the modules, answer questions and reassure each other as well as talk about activities and assessments we needed to complete. 

The tasks and assessments I carried out encouraged deep learning and offered insights into how a Sensory Integration Practitioner can provide therapies that meet the needs of an individual with sensory processing difficulties. After completing Module 3, I transferred over to Sheffield Hallam University to complete Module 4 and my dissertation. I was nervous as up until that point, I had built relationships with and been supported by SIE. However, I was not disappointed as the level of care and support continued. 

As part of the MSc, I had to complete a piece of research. SIE and Sheffield Hallam University opened up the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and grow both professionally and personally. Firstly, they supported and guided me in collating a research proposal. I decided to undertake a qualitative study on sensory experiences in secondary school-aged children with neurodiversity. The university took into account my proposal and my professional background and matched me with an appropriate supervisor. The outstanding support from SIE and Sheffield Hallam University was invaluable as they provided clear guidance and opportunities for growth, which led to a better performance from myself.

 The outstanding support from SIE and Sheffield Hallam University was invaluable as they provided clear guidance and opportunities for growth, which led to a better performance from myself. 

I was given constructive feedback and fostered a positive and respectful relationship with both SIE and Sheffield Hallam University. With this relationship, I was able to complete my study on sensory experiences in secondary school-aged children with neurodiversity, which allowed me to generate new knowledge through research, critically evaluate existing evidence and translate research findings into improved clinical practice and patient care. 

Throughout my MSc journey, I have had a really positive, enjoyable experience, so much so that this has made me want to continue my studies and undertake a doctoral degree.

Sensory Integration Education is a leading UK provider of postgraduate and CPD training in sensory integration. Our postgraduate courses are accredited by Sheffield Hallam University.