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Q&A with Nazli El Leithy

Nazli El Leithy is a Special and Inclusive Education MA alumna, class of 2020. She talks to us about her experience studying at IOE.

Nazli el Leithy, Special and Inclusive Education MA alumna, class of 2020. Image permission: Nazli El Leithy.
What attracted you to IOE and your course?

A main point of attraction to me was that IOE has been ranked #1 in Education since 2014. With regards to the MA in Special & Inclusive Education, I was particularly drawn to the diversity of elective choices that we could choose from. It allowed me to make my learning experience more tailored to my own personal interests. 

What were the most interesting things you did while at IOE?

While at IOE, the visit to the autism school in the “Autism: Theory and Practice” elective was a specific highlight for me. It was a great opportunity to see how the theoretical background we had gained on autism can be reflected in a school environment.

Witnessing the practical similarities or differences to the research we were taught was very interesting. 

Which organisation do you work for and what is your job title?

I work at a centre called the Effective Learning Foundation in Cairo as a learning skills development specialist. 

Tell us about your current role.

I support children with learning difficulties. I provide one to one pull-out sessions with children ages 5-10 to work on literacy interventions, pre-academic skills and evidence-based programs.

Specific programs I have been trained in include Seeing Stars, Handwriting Without Tears, Explode the Code, and Orton-Gillingham.

What are your future ambitions?

I hope to launch my own foundation in Egypt. There is a huge stigma associated with disability in my country and a lack of awareness regarding special educational needs.

I would like this foundation to carry out country-wide on-ground educational campaigns, empower parents who feel helpless and train professionals who want to develop their skillsets. 

What advice would you give to a student looking to get into a career in your sector?

Approach this field with an open heart and a flexible mindset.

Who or what has had the greatest influence on your career?

My uncle has had the greatest influence on my career, given that he himself has global developmental delay with some autistic traits. Being raised with him opened my eyes to the world of disability and was a huge driving force behind why I chose this career and path.


Last updated 15 March 2023.