Written by Hannah Wilson
Founder of Diverse Educators
It is with huge sadness that we share the news that one of our community, Amanda Carter-Philpott, passed away on April 17th.
Amanda was a passionate disability and diversity activist and campaigner who demonstrated an unwavering commitment to inclusion. She consistently advocated for social justice and consciously became a voice for the voiceless.
As a disabled professional she spent over 30 years in the social welfare/criminal justice field both as a social worker and as a senior probation officer in Milton Keynes and the surrounding counties.
As a trainer, educator, public speaker and activist in the disability community she engaged with many diverse audiences sharing her dynamic approach to life with optimism and a dry sense of humour.
Amanda is a contributor to our book, she has blogged for us and she has spoken at #DiverseEd events. Below is an extract from the conclusion in her contribution to the Marriage and Civil Partnership Chapter:
Commitment, Choices and Courageous Conversations
Key Takeaways
- Create safe informed environments for conducting courageous conversations around the issues mentioned in this chapter.
- Challenge misinformation and misunderstanding of disability issues through curricular exposure.
- Develop an effective evaluation system for analysing impact incorporating feedback from staff, students/pupils, parents, local community groups and other agencies .
Key Questions
- Teachers: How far have you considered disability, marriage and civil partnerships in your PSHE sessions?
- SLT: What are the main barriers to disability awareness/confidence in your institution?
- Governors: How can you consult with and engage the disability community in raising awareness/confidence in your education settings?
Key Commitment for Diverse Educators’ Manifesto
Facilitate forums for courageous conversations with both children, young people and staff in relation to marriage, civil partnerships and disability.
Amanda had a huge heart and loved the work she did, she will be deeply missed by our network.
We are thinking of her family and send our condolences to everyone who knew her. We will be making a donation on behalf of the network to a local charity that supports the campaigning she did for her community.
Some tributes from the writing team she contributed to:
Amanda was a wonderful member of our Chapter Team and her perspectives, through what she wrote and also what she contributed during our virtual team meetings, made such an impact.
Due to the focus of the chapter, we shared personal experiences and information during our discussions and, although we never met in person, we got to know one another quite quickly.
She positively challenged and enlightened us all and enriched the whole chapter with her contribution. What a mighty educator and amazing role model!
What a loss. My thoughts and condolences go to all her family, friends and colleagues.
Our chapter is even more special now in Amanda’s memory. Thoughts and prayers with her family and friends. May she Rest in Peace.
Amanda was such a warm and generous member of our team.
Very sad news. But I hope the legacy we’ve started to build will make an impact on so many.
Sending love and strength to Amanda’s family.
Amanda was such a lovely, warm and engaging lady.
I will be thinking of her family and friends.
It is hard to believe that we have lost such an important voice. Her contribution to the field of DEI will not be forgotten. My thoughts are with her family.
