Share this
We are delighted to see our funding and resources are helping Teddie van Pelt to pursue her master degree in Speech and Language Therapy .
1. Tell us a bit more about yourself?
I’m Teddie van Pelt. I am a speech and language therapist (SLT). I work as an SLT at a specialist school, a role I began in 2023 after a 5-year break to raise my children.
2. What are you doing?
I am currently studying part-time for a Master of Speech and Language Therapy (MSLT), Research Pathway, at Massey University. This program offers qualified speech and language therapists (SLTs) advanced opportunities for clinical and theoretical study.
3. What inspired you to do what you’re doing?
My previous experience as an SLT in a hospital setting, combined with my current role in a specialist school, it has highlighted the need for upskilling, particularly in supporting children with complex communication needs (CCN). My research focuses on coaching classroom staff in communication partner skills (CPS) through shared storybook reading (SSR).
My current academic pursuit is both personal and professional milestone. After becoming a mother, I experienced a shift in my identity and sense of purpose. This journey allows me to reclaim and redefine my aspirations, reaffirming my commitment to my career and personal growth.
4. Why did you choose to focus on this topic?
In my current role, I’ve had success in providing a voice for students with CCN by supporting them with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). However, I’ve noticed the challenges teachers face in managing various AAC systems in the classroom. With a limited capacity for intensive intervention, I reflected on how best to support both students and staff. This led to my research focus: coaching classroom staff in communication partner skills. My research will enhance my professional practice, improve learning outcomes for students with CCN, and support teachers by fostering reflective practice through coaching.
5. What made you decide to apply for an HealthCarePlus Grant for Good? (where did you hear about it)
When I began my studies in early 2024, I knew it would require some financial sacrifices for me and my family. We’ve been a single-income household for the past five years, and balancing part-time work, study, and family life has been a challenge. I started looking for scholarships and grants that could help ease the financial pressure while still allowing me to focus on my Master’s.
After joining the specialist school where I now work, I became an NZEI member and later took advantage of HealthCare+ for affordable health cover. When I saw the HealthCare+ Grants for Good in a newsletter, I was hesitant to apply—I wasn’t sure I’d qualify. But I reminded myself that there was nothing to lose by trying. Even just going through the application helped me reflect on my goals, and I’m glad I took that step.
6. How was your experience in Appling for the grant?
The application process was straightforward, and the team behind the grant was really helpful in answering my questions before I submitted my application. I appreciated that the questions in the application encouraged me to reflect deeply on my reasons for studying and helped me clarify the direction I want to take. Writing the application reaffirmed that I didn’t want my research study to be just about fulfilling a course requirement—it’s about creating something meaningful that I can use in my role as an SLT to better support the students and staff I work with.
7. How has funding from HealthCarePlus helped?
The grant has made a real difference for me. It removed the financial worry that otherwise weighed on me, allowing me to focus on my study without juggling priorities or feeling overwhelmed. That peace of mind has been invaluable.
It also meant I could be more present with my family and spend time with my children without thinking of limited finances. I’m grateful for how this funding has helped not just with my study, but with the bigger picture of life.
8. What does this grant mean to you?
The HealthCare+ grant has been a meaningful support during my professional development journey. It’s helped cover the costs of my research study, which is a key part of fulfilling the requirements for my Master of Speech and Language Therapy (MSLT). This has eased the financial pressure on my family, and I’m truly grateful for the support—it’s allowed me to stay focused and make steady progress in both study and life.
9. What would you say to others considering but hesitant in applying for a grant?
If you’re hesitant to apply, give it a go—even if you think you might not qualify. The worst outcome is a "no," but the process of writing your application is valuable in itself—it helps you reflect on your goals and the purpose behind your work. You might be surprised by what comes from simply putting yourself forward.
10. What advice would you give to future Grants for Good applicants?
For future applicants: take time to really know your “why.” When you’re clear on your purpose, the words come more naturally—and so does the confidence. Whether or not you receive the grant, you’ll walk away proud of your journey and grounded in the reason you started. Trust the process, and when things get tough, return to that inner fire that drives you.
11. What are you hoping to achieve?
This grant has given me the opportunity to return to my professional path after five years of maternity break, and to deepen my practice through postgraduate study. Through my Master’s research, I’m exploring how coaching can support teachers and support staff in confidently using communication strategies with students who have complex communication needs. My goal is to promote truly inclusive classrooms where every student’s voice is recognised and supported as part of everyday routines, not as an added task. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to a more collaborative, sustainable approach to communication support in schools.
12. In what way will your course help make a positive impact on others?
My project is focused on exploring how coaching can empower educators to build communication-rich environments, especially through simple daily routines like shared storybook reading. By equipping teachers and support staff with practical strategies, this work helps reduce workload while strengthening inclusive practice. The positive impact reaches beyond individual classrooms—when student voice is supported meaningfully and consistently, it improves not only learning outcomes but also the sense of connection and belonging for students, staff, and families alike.
If you are interested and want to know more this year's Grants for Good and how to apply for one then click below.
Grants for Good
Leave a comment