Zakia Shaikh

About me

With over 20 years of experience working with neurodiverse students in higher education as an accredited Specialist Study Skills Tutor and having worked with adults in the workplace, I am passionate about empowering individuals to harness their strengths and achieve their full potential. My background in education, combined with my knowledge of neuroscience, psychoeducation, and training as an Executive Function Coach/ADHD Coach, uniquely positions me to understand and address the multifaceted challenges faced by neurodivergent people. I understand the impact of emotional dysregulation, relationship building, habit formation, intersectionality, among many other life’s challenges. I use evidence-based strategies to enhance cognitive function and executive function skills, developing personalised coaching plans that consider the emotional, social and cultural dimensions of my clients’ lives. My holistic approach, empathy, and advocacy for neurodiversity enable me to create an inclusive and supportive environment. I offer individual coaching and co-coaching to promote success for all individuals.

Training, qualifications & training

Experience

Twenty years plus working in Higher Education as an accredited Specialist Study Skills Tutor Spld/ASC (accredited by PASSHE and ADG FE/HE), working with neurodivergent students using a neuroaffirmative approach. In the past I have assessed and produced diagnostic reports reports and Access Arrangements reports in F.E. I have Work Place Strategy coaching experience too.

Qualifications & Training

2025 May-Sept currently training: Associate Coach Diploma (ICF ACC Level 1) (Optimus Coaching Academy)

• 2025 Association of Coaching and Universal Coaching Alliance

Accredited Award ADHD Coaching (Barrett Coaching &

Training Ltd)

• 2023 Connections In Mind Accredited Executive Functions

Skills Coach

Level 1

• 2022 HANDLE Level 1 Introductory Course

• 2021 UKAAN Understanding and Working with ADHD Students

• 2021 Working Effectively with Autistic University Students NADP

• 2019 Real Training

Post Graduate SEND (Autism Skills and Knowledge)

• 2017 Dyslexia Action

Examination Access Arrangements for Specialist Assessors

• 2011 Dyslexia Action

Practising Certificate for Assessing and Teaching

• 2011 Real Training

CCET- Certificate in Competence in Education Testing

• 2009 Dyslexia Action

Adults in Dyslexia: A course for tutors in FE/HE

• 2003 Open University

Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Studies in

Education/Dyslexia

• 2000 BSc (Hons) Psychology with Human Biology

Fees

Free 30 minute discovery call.

I offer a select number of pro bono coaching sessions please contact me to learn more about availability and eligibility.

Specialist Study Skills: £65.00 per hour

Executive Functions/Neurodiversity/ADHD Coaching starting at £75.00 per hour

Additional Information

I am passionate about exploring intersectionality and culture, and I strive to provide a safe space for all individuals to reflect on their ways of thinking, learning, feeling, and being. With my South Asian heritage, cultural awareness, and ability to speak Urdu, I offer a nuanced coaching approach that respects and understands the complexities of identity, family, and societal expectations.

I am equally committed to working with people from all cultures, identities, and experiences, ensuring that my coaching is inclusive, empathetic, and tailored to each individual’s unique journey.

Availability

Remote or face-face in the Birmingham area.