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.
