Barbara Kennedy

Children's Views Project Officer

Barbara joined Children in Scotland in August 2025 as a Children’s Views Project Officer to support education professionals to better engage with children with complex needs.

Prior to working for Children in Scotland, Barbara spent her career in education teaching pupils with additional needs, both in the ASN and mainstream sectors. Within ASN schools she worked alongside learners with complex needs and alternative communication styles, and in mainstream schools she worked collaboratively with autistic pupils, families and school staff to deliver individualised support packages.

As a specialist within the Third Sector, Barbara delivered successful support programmes and staff training for employees working closely with autistic and neurodivergent young people within the residential care sector.

Throughout her life Barbara has endeavoured to promote inclusion, to listen, understand and support children with alternative needs and different communication styles.

Barbara loves making pottery, wild swimming and hill walking.