Abstract

I sincerely thank the students and staff at the special school described in this book. Their humour, friendship and conversations provided great sustenance throughout the research. In particular, I am indebted to all the students with whom I have ever worked. I hope I can remember to learn from all they taught me about themselves and about myself.

There are many people to whom I am intellectually indebted—people whose work I have read, people with whom I have talked and people with whom I have engaged in many critical discussions. In particular, I thank the students of Professor Bronwyn Davies who share amazing insights; I am privileged to be a member of such a talented group of writers and thinkers.

Special thanks to Professor Bronwyn Davies, my editor and mentor, for her guidance and support. I appreciate the support of the Australian Catholic University, particularly Professor Marea Nicholson for her insights and support.

I wish to thank all my friends, particularly Lee, Alicia, Susan and Julie. Their patience, advice and humour provided great support throughout this journey.

To my sisters, Madeline and Patricia, I offer this work as a tribute to our lives.

To Ian, I offer my gratitude and my love—your support and partnership sustain me in so many ways.