Gerry McWilliams

Background

About Gerry McWilliams

I completed my PhD with the Ulster University School of Psychology in 2020. My research focused on the use of evidence based practice in education and the impact of an evidence based literacy intervention on pupil attainment. I previously achieved a M.Sc. with distinction in Applied Behaviour Analysis in 2017. I have worked directly, and by managing people and processes, to support vulnerable people in society for 20 years including people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, intellectual disability, mental health issues, disadvantaged children, the elderly and students struggling with literacy. I have extensive experience coordinating and leading training throughout Ireland and the UK. I have a strong background in person centered planning, social role valorisation and the implementation of the HSE’s New Directions Framework. I have further qualifications including certification with the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), certification in Training Practice with Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and Training the Trainer certification with the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). I am currently employed by Letterkenny Institute of Technology as a Learning Support Tutor and with the National Learning Network as a Training Instructor teaching a range of QQI awards. I am married with 3 kids and love life in beautiful Donegal. I follow lots of sports, love reading and experiencing the great outdoors. My passion is in helping people to better themselves. I enjoy improving processes and systems that support this and believe that effective measurement of behaviour, and the data it provides, are the key to achieving this. Collaboration, research, supportive learning environments and evidence based practice are key tenets of effective education and allow us to adapt to the changing, challenging needs of the world we live in.