University of St Andrews

Kate Leavy

Disability Adviser

Kate joined Student Services as a Disability Adviser in April 2019. Since graduating in 2007 with a degree in Applied Psychology from UCC in Ireland, she has worked in various roles across social care and education sectors. Completion of a Master of Education, Autism (Adults) in 2014 strengthened her practical knowledge, and allowed her to progress different supportive, management and development roles in autism services in Scotland, Ireland, and Australia. She has held the role of key worker, tutor, adviser, manager and has led practice improvement initiatives.

Kate is committed to her own lifelong learning. She achieved a Professional Development Award in Strategies to Facilitate Inclusiveness in Learning and Work, SCQF Level 9 in 2021. Kate continues her professional development completing training and attending conferences relevant to her role including Asist, Decider Skills, Mental Health First Aid, Emotion Works, Low Arousal Approach and Peer Education, to name just a few. She is a is a member of the National Association of Disability Practitioners (NADP).

Kate facilitates the Student Services Autism Group with her colleague Michelle. This group gives students an opportunity to meet peers, socialise, share experiences, and receive information about university life. She is currently working with Michelle and a team of student interns researching students’ experience of the sensory environment at university. Kate’s practice is grounded in a student-centred approach that promotes inclusion, wellbeing, and equal access to opportunities. She enjoys finding new and creative ways to improve practice, involve people and develop positive cultures and experiences for all.