Michelle Thackray

Co-founded and scaled a neurodiversity-affirming developmental and educational consultancy, setting up end-to-end delivery workflows and driving growth strategy. Coordinated concurrent client programmes (up to 9) with milestone-based tracking and managed stakeholder engagement (~30), performance tracking, and financial/compliance operations using Excel and Sage.

Supported autistic children with classroom and play activities. Contributed to school renovation and helped run fun days.

Managed 10–12 concurrent client projects, leading project planning, execution, and monitoring for teams of up to 7. Trained 6 practitioners and facilitated monthly internal/external stakeholder review meetings (~80) to drive decision-making, progress tracking, and continuous improvement.

Delivered 1:1 and small group developmental programs (ages 3–15), integrating evidence-informed educational models including THACKRAY ESDM, TEACCH, ABA, DIR/Floortime, and social skills. Produced monthly analytical reports, coordinated multidisciplinary teams, and supported learners with complex profiles (ASD, ADHD, OCD, dyspraxia, PDA).

Led a dedicated client case, ensuring accurate implementation and evolution of individualized ABA intervention plans. Coordinated team communication, monitored data integrity and program effectiveness against developmental benchmarks, and provided regular parent progress reviews while addressing implementation gaps.

Delivered structured 1:1 ABA and developmental intervention programs for autistic learners (ages 2–22) both in-person and remotely. Collected and analysed behavioural data to track goal progression and worked with internal teams and families to ensure consistent, measurable outcomes.

Volunteered at a baby house, assisting with infant care, cleaning and organizing, and supporting fundraising activities.

Provided customer service and handled daily cash sales at a market setting, supporting smooth daily transactions. Maintained consistent sales and cash processes to support daily operations.

Grade: Distinction

Completed a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Human Physiology at the University of Pretoria, graduating with a distinction.

Grade: 14 distinctions

Completed a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology, Genetics and Psychology at the University of Pretoria, achieving 14 distinctions.

Completed the IEB National Senior Certificate at Thomas More College.