Colleen Preston
Bishops Lydeard,United Kingdom
Summary
Dedicated unqualified teacher and careers lead at Five Rivers, Park House School, with a proven ability to engage and motivate students and colleagues. Innovative problem-solver with a strong commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. Recognized for adaptability, reliability, and a focus on continuous professional development. Skills in providing exceptional support and guidance are transferable across various roles.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Unqualified Teacher/Careers Lead
Five Rivers-Park House School
Taunton, Somerset
2021.02 - Current
Assist high-needs students (aged 8-18) by delivering tailored academic and social emotional and mental health (SEMH) support on a 2:1 basis.
Support pupils with trauma and attachment difficulties by implementing personalised lesson plans.
Mentor new staff in best practices for student engagement and support.
LSA (Learning Support Assistant
Bridgwater & Taunton College
Bridgwater, Somerset
2017.09 - 2021.02
Assisted students with higher needs in cross-college ALS team.
Provided one-on-one and group support, including study skills sessions.
Recorded observations and comments on ILPs and communicated strategies to colleagues.
Utilised IT skills on a daily basis.
Delivered morning briefings to the team in absence of line manager.
Collaborated with lecturers and external agencies regarding student progression.
Teaching assistant
North Petherton Primary School
North Petherton, Somerset
2009.09 - 2017.09
Assisting with daily routines, 1:1 support and small group interventions. Facilitated active learning environments with engaging teaching aids and resources.
On occasions, I provided whole class cover/teaching predominantly in KS1.
Supporting 1:1 children with Autism and children with challenging behavior.
Full Time Mum
None
Bridgwater, Somerset
2008.09 - 2009.09
Caring for my three children
Retail manager/Book Keeper
Aquarius Pools & Leisure
Taunton, Somerset
2000.08 - 2008.09
Ensured smooth running of daily operations with efficient resource allocation. Streamlined checkout procedures, enhancing customer experience during peak periods. Gained excellent product knowledge through diligent research, leading to better sales performance. Processing invoices. Making client bookings and managing engineers diary's.
Education
GCSEs - And A-Levels
Colyton Grammar School
Colyton, Devon 1987.09 - 1995.09
NVQ Level 4 - Careers Guidance, Education and Advice
Gower College
Swansea, City and County of Swansea 2024.07 - 2025.07
Skills
Communication – I can liaise easily with people of all ages and adapt to suit individual’s needs
Approachable and friendly, build rapport easily, well-mannered and respectful
Self-Belief – I have a positive ‘can-do’ attitude, which I apply to all situations I am faced with
Self-management – I have exceptional organisation and time management skills
Enthusiastic Team player and motivational
Conscientious-Hard working and professional Promotes workplace ethos
Knowledge of EHCP’s and associated FE environment
Implements workplace policies and practices
Administration and recording accurate information and keeping records up to date Full (clean) UK driving license held for 32 years
Affiliations
- I am a keen rugby fan and having played when I was younger I regularly attend live matches and now watch my daughter play. I love Country music and enjoy attending live music events and concerts. I am a family orientated person and enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I like to read thrillers and my favorite author is James Patteson.
Certification
I have obtained various creditations and qualifications throughout my careers, including:
Level 2 Understanding Personal Care Needs
Moving & Handling of People Theory & Practical
Level 2 Understanding Autism
Level 2 Awareness Of Mental Health Issues
Connect 5 (Mental Health & Wellbeing)
All BTC CPD inc. Safeguarding
Basic First Aid for Schools
Level 2 Adult Numeracy
Level 2 Supporting Teaching & Learning
Paediatric First Aid
Level 2 Adult Literacy
Child Protection Cascade Basic Awareness
LIRF in Running Fitness & Sight Loss Awareness Guide Runner
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
NVQ Level 4 - Careers Guidance, Education and Advice
Gower College
2024.07 - 2025.07
Unqualified Teacher/Careers Lead
Five Rivers-Park House School
2021.02 - Current
LSA (Learning Support Assistant
Bridgwater & Taunton College
2017.09 - 2021.02
Teaching assistant
North Petherton Primary School
2009.09 - 2017.09
Full Time Mum
None
2008.09 - 2009.09
Retail manager/Book Keeper
Aquarius Pools & Leisure
2000.08 - 2008.09
GCSEs - And A-Levels
Colyton Grammar School
1987.09 - 1995.09