Demi Naoum-Berger lives in Luxembourg, is a graduate of the MA in Special and Additional Learning Needs from ICEP Europe together with the University of East London, focused on inclusive practice.
Fluent in four European languages and with over 30 years of experience as a teacher, trainer, and educational consultant, Demi has built a career around multilingual and multicultural education. Over time, she has guided international students and relocating families through smooth transitions across school systems, curricula, languages, and cultures. Currently, she works in the Education Support Department at the European School of Luxembourg, providing tailored academic support and promoting inclusion and learner autonomy.
Why I Chose the Master’s in Special and Additional Learning Needs
My goal was to deepen my knowledge of special educational needs while continuing to support students and their families. For this reason, I sought a flexible, academically rich course that addressed diverse learning needs.
The MA in Special and Additional Learning Needs, delivered by ICEP Europe in partnership with the University of East London, proved to be exactly what I was looking for. It gave me the opportunity to specialise in inclusion, autism, dyslexia, and support for exceptionally able learners—areas that are central to my work and values.
Key Lessons from the Programme
During the programme, I learned how to identify and support reading difficulties, as well as how to design inclusive environments that respond to individual learners. These studies combined theory with practical insight, allowing me to connect my teaching experience with new approaches to inclusion.
In addition, the course gave me the confidence to bring differentiated teaching into practice and to collaborate more effectively with colleagues and families.
The programme enabled me to:
Apply strategies to support learners with diverse needs
Integrate differentiated teaching into inclusive classrooms
Empower students to take ownership of their learning
Collaborate with stakeholders to improve outcomes
Shaping My Work in Luxembourg
This experience has transformed the way I approach teaching and support. I now feel better prepared to design tailored strategies and to create classrooms where every learner can succeed.
The programme also strengthened my collaboration skills. By working closely with colleagues, families, and wider school communities, I can address challenges with more clarity and a shared sense of purpose.
My Advice to Other Educators
I would recommend this MA to professionals who are committed to inclusion. It offers an excellent balance of academic depth, practical application, and flexibility. For me, it has been a truly transformative step in my journey as an educator.
For educators who want to take the next step, applications are now open for the MA in Special and Additional Learning Needs with the University of East London, welcoming teachers worldwide.