Through the HealthCarePlus Grants for Good programme, Rebecca May is building bridges between research and practice, ensuring that every autistic learner has access to the support they need to succeed.
As a Resource Teacher: Learning and Behaviour (RTLB) in the Coastal Otago Cluster, Rebecca May has dedicated a significant portion of her career to ensuring that autistic learners thrive in mainstream school settings. Now, thanks to the HealthCarePlus Grants for Good programme, her passion is driving groundbreaking research that could transform educational support across the South Island.
Rebecca’s journey began in the classroom, working directly with autistic students and their whānau.
“I have seen firsthand how the right support can make a profound difference in a child’s learning and wellbeing,” she says.
This daily experience sparked a crucial realisation: while effective evidence-based practices exist, there’s limited research on how they’re actually implemented in schools.
Her Master’s research in Specialist Teaching at Massey University is addressing this gap head-on. Rebecca is investigating how RTLBs and schools across the South Island use evidence-based practices to support autistic learners, with the goal of identifying the most effective and sustainable strategies while understanding implementation challenges.
“I chose this topic because I believe that understanding current practices and challenges will help us develop more effective, culturally responsive support for autistic learners,” Rebecca says.
Her research isn’t just academic – it’s personal and practical. The HealthCarePlus Grants for Good funding has been instrumental in making this vision a reality.
“The funding has enabled me to dedicate more time to my research, cover the costs of course fees, and ensure that my findings are accessible to RTLBs and schools across the region,” Rebecca says.
Rebecca discovered the grant opportunity through professional networks and colleagues who had previously received funding. What drew her to apply was HealthCarePlus’s commitment to initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives. The application process itself proved valuable, as she reflects:
“It was a positive experience that encouraged me to reflect on the impact of my research and how it aligns with the goals of HealthCarePlus.”
The impact of Rebecca’s work extends far beyond academic achievement. Her research aims to help RTLBs and schools better understand and implement evidence-based practices, creating more inclusive, supportive and effective learning environments.
“Ultimately, the results will benefit autistic students, their whānau and the wider school community,” she says.
For Rebecca, this grant has given her the confidence and resources to pursue research with a focus on making a meaningful impact for autistic learners and their communities. Her message to others considering applying is encouraging:
“Give it a try. The application process is a valuable opportunity to clarify your goals and articulate the potential impact of your work.”
Her work exemplifies how targeted funding can create ripple effects of positive change throughout entire communities.
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