Gemma Shaw – Crossroads Therapy at Silverwood School
Gemma Shaw is an experienced occupational therapist from Crossroads Therapy Limited, holding a postgraduate qualification in Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI). She provides weekly support to Silverwood School, working across all three campuses throughout the academic year.
Gemma’s role involves working closely with teaching and support staff to help meet pupils’ sensory and motor needs within the classroom. She provides practical, in-class guidance and training, supporting the use of sensory motor circuits—structured movement activities that help children with regulation, coordination, and readiness to learn.
Her support includes offering individualised strategies such as alternative seating options, as well as working alongside staff to develop approaches for supporting transitions, managing arousal levels, and promoting emotional and physical regulation. Where parental consent is given, Gemma also carries out observations and provides tailored recommendations for specific children. Whole-class observations are used to suggest inclusive strategies that benefit the broader group.
Gemma has supported project-based work across the schools, including developing therapy-informed guidance to support pupils’ participation in 'sensory swim' hydrotherapy sessions. She also contributed to the planning and use of the new sensory spaces at the Rowde campus, helping to ensure it meets the diverse sensory needs of pupils.
Her input is designed to strengthen everyday classroom practice and help ensure that all pupils, whatever their sensory or motor needs, have the best opportunity to thrive in school.
