Dr. Diona Zheng

Dr. Diona is a Senior Educational Psychologist with more than 9 years in the field. Dr. Diona was trained in the UK with the UCL Institute of Education which is a world-leading centre for research and teaching in education and social science. Dr. Diona was working in the Educational Psychology Service of an Inner London Local Authority before returning to Singapore in 2023 with her family. 

Dr. Diona has worked in educational settings within Singapore and the UK in various roles including a Primary Classroom Teacher and Special Education Officer in MOE HQ before practising as a qualified Educational Psychologist after obtaining her Professional Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her professional journey has provided her with a sound understanding of both the Singapore and British education systems. 

In her 9 years of practical experience as an Educational Psychologist, Dr. Diona has honed her skills in conducting comprehensive psychoeducational assessments, designing and implementing individualised education plans (IEPs), and collaboration with educators, parents, and other professionals to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for children and young people. She is proficient in identifying and addressing learning difficulties, behavioural issues, and social-emotional challenges because she has a deep understanding of the unique learning requirements of diverse students while using evidence-based practice and research in educational psychology. 

Dr. Diona has been involved in various projects and programmes to develop the skills and competence in the support systems around the child. She has provided training and supervision for Emotional Literacy Support Assistants, she is an Accredited Video Interaction Guidance Practitioner and she is also trained in delivering and consulting on the Bright Start Cognitive Curriculum for Young Children. Dr. Diona regularly provides consultation with school leaders and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinators to address systemic issues around school provision for a diverse student population. 

Dr. Diona is passionate about adopting a holistic approach to assessment and supporting student success by recognising the interconnectedness of cognitive, emotional, social, and environmental factors in learning and development. Her work is guided by principles of inclusivity, cultural responsiveness, and equity to ensure that every learner has access to the support they need to flourish. She also believes in focusing on the student and family voice while delivering targeted and evidence-based interventions tailored to the educational setting to help students thrive academically and emotionally.