I have always been fascinated by the human brain and what contributes to our wellbeing. I enjoy working within team environments and can take initiative to lead, when required. Also, being sensitive to the group dynamic. After working as a qualified Mental Health Nurse in an Adult Acute ward, I moved into Special Needs Education, as an assistant and onto train as a teacher. I have developed competencies in Learning Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Particularly in education settings, I like to include drama, music and play, that are therapeutic as well as educational.
Planning 'stay and play' sessions for under 5's, using varied resources, adapting for children of all abilities and providing sensory play (e.g tuff tray/messy play) as well as introducing literature through story time and songs.
Supporting families who are feeling lonely and isolated, or might need signposting to services within the borough e.g Her Centre
Using MAKATON signing throughout our sessions to support speech and language for young children and/or help develop language, build relationships and increase equal opportunities for all the families.
Accessing training and professional development though weekly meetings.
Working alongside other volunteers, managers and professionals cohesively and organising fundraising events for the Big Red Bus.
Supporting parents who have children with speech and language concerns and referring them to our 'play plus' session to help support their communication, using makaton and other SEND strategies.
Supported the delivery of personalised and differentiated learning for pupils with SEN.
Planned and led effective 1:1 and small-group interventions tailored to individual needs.
Managed and supervised a large staff team, supporting performance and professional development.
Worked collaboratively with therapists and multidisciplinary teams to support pupil outcomes.
Built positive relationships with parents and carers to promote engagement and pupil progress.
Led weekly Attention Autism sessions for pre-verbal pupils with complex needs.
Co-directed a Shakespeare Schools Festival production, supporting pupils with diverse abilities to develop confidence and communication skills.
Used creative and drama-based approaches to enhance social, emotional, and personal development.
Contributed to successful pupil performances at the Rose Theatre.
Key Skills: SEN Support • Autism Support • Team Leadership • Parent Partnership • Multi-Disciplinary Working • 1:1 Interventions • Group Facilitation • Differentiated Learning • Communication Development • Behaviour Support • Creative Learning • Staff Management