- I enjoy cycling on my E bike
- I enjoy swimming
- I am a crafty person who enjoys diamond art and sewing
Denise Cassidy
Exeter,Devon
Summary
Dedicated Support Worker experienced in fostering inclusive learning environments for children with special educational needs. Demonstrated commitment to adapting teaching methods and collaborating effectively with teachers, parents, and specialists to promote academic, physical, and social growth. Engaged in hands-on support through various volunteering roles, focusing on personalised approaches and creating memorable experiences for individuals facing diverse challenges.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Teaching Assistant in Special Educational Needs
Ellen Tinkham College
Exeter, Devon
05.2024 - Current
- Implemented behaviour management techniques to create a safe and productive learning environment.
- Supervised and supported SEN pupils to complete in-class activities.
- Provided one-to-one support to students with physical disabilities, aiding their mobility around school.
- Conducted sensory activities to support students with autism, improving their focus and engagement.
- Assisted in the development of social skills through structured group activities and peer interactions.
- Monitored and recorded progress of SEN students, providing feedback to teachers and parents.
- Quickly built strong, long-lasting relationships with students to obtain extensive knowledge on individual needs and struggles.
- Provided hands-on support during school outings, ensuring safety and inclusion of SEN students.
- Coordinated with external agencies to secure additional resources and support for SEN students.
Playworker
Hollow lane Club
Exeter, Devon
07.2022 - Current
- Monitored children's safety during play, promptly addressing any hazards or risky behaviours.
- Adapted play activities to meet the diverse needs of children, including those with additional support needs.
- Delivered games and activities with passion and enthusiasm, enhancing children's learning experiences.
- Built and nurtured friendly, caring relationships with children, enhancing family trust in care provisions.
- Collaborated with team to provide personal care support/ feeding/ including using a hoist and other accessible equipment.
- Assisted in organising and leading trips for children, craft and sensory workshops as well as swimming in the hydro pool.
Learning Support Assistant
Exeter College
Exeter, Devon
01.2024 - 05.2024
- Offered extra help and assistance to SEND students with individual classwork and group activities.
- Provided emotional support and guidance to students, fostering a sense of confidence and well-being.
- Supported students in understanding GCSE English and Maths concepts during lessons.
- Assisted in the development of social skills through group work and peer interaction activities.
- Encouraged pupil participation in classroom discussions, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.
- Updated parents and carers with tailored feedback and progress reports.
- Complied with policies and procedures relating to child protection, safeguarding and security.
Teaching assistant (grade D)
Southbrook school
Exeter, Devon
01.2017 - 12.2023
- Recorded welfare concerns on Cpoms and communicated with SLT/pastoral for safeguarding, contributing to student well-being and support.
- Attended relevant courses on safeguarding, policies, and procedures, and first aid during staff inset days.
- Supervised students in Design and technology department, ensuring safe use of tools and equipment, while providing guidance in food tech room during cooking lessons.
- Supported year 9 tutor group with morning and afternoon registrations and assisted taxi team at day's end to ensure smooth transitions for students.
- Escorted year 10/11 students to college placements at the Lawrence building to facilitate their transition.
Teaching assistant/ Boarding house matron
Exeter Cathedral School
Exeter, Devon
09.2012 - 12.2016
- Managed daily operations of school boarding house during house parents' absence, maintaining safety and structure for boarders.
- Served as overnight supervisor, ready to respond to emergencies and ensure student safety throughout the night.
- Maintained student safety inside and outside classrooms in line with school safeguarding policies.
- Supported and oversaw meal and bedtime routines with the boarders in year 3 - year 8.
- Assisted with prep and organising evening activities
- Communicated with parents regarding student needs, including medical and emergency situations, ensuring timely support.
- Supported student with Down's syndrome in years 3-6 across all lessons and during sports, fostering inclusion and engagement.
- Assisted pupils with special educational needs, enabling equal access to learning resources and opportunities.
- Supported the class teacher in providing the students with entry level work.
Education
GCSEs -
Pearson
Exeter, Devon01-1993
NVQ Level 1/2 - Health and social care
Exeter College
ExeterNVQ Level 2 - Childcare and education
Puffins Nursery
NVQ Level 3 - Childcare and Education
Puffins nursery
NVQ Level 3 - Playwork
City and guilds
Exeter, DevonSkills
- SEN support
- Individual education plans
- In-class SEND support
- Autism support
- Behaviour management
- Behaviour tracking
- Classroom support
- Group learning support
- Individual learning support
- Learning disabilities experience
- Medical care support
- Safeguarding procedures
- Pastoral care
- Visual timetables
- Strong communication
Interests
Timeline
Teaching Assistant in Special Educational Needs
Ellen Tinkham College
05.2024 - Current
Learning Support Assistant
Exeter College
01.2024 - 05.2024
Playworker
Hollow lane Club
07.2022 - Current
Teaching assistant (grade D)
Southbrook school
01.2017 - 12.2023
Teaching assistant/ Boarding house matron
Exeter Cathedral School
09.2012 - 12.2016
GCSEs -
Pearson
NVQ Level 1/2 - Health and social care
Exeter College
NVQ Level 2 - Childcare and education
Puffins Nursery
NVQ Level 3 - Childcare and Education
Puffins nursery
NVQ Level 3 - Playwork
City and guilds