Derick Alu
Leeds ,West Yorkshire
Summary
Motivated and dedicated Secondary Science PGCE trainee at Leeds Trinity University, with a strong academic background in Civil and Structural Engineering and substantial experience working in educational settings. Experienced in supporting students with learning, behavioural and additional needs, including experience as a Learning Support and Care Assistant, Behaviour Support Worker and SEN Teaching Assistant. Strong communication, safeguarding, behaviour-support and interpersonal skills, with a passion for helping young people develop academically and personally. Keen to develop effective teaching practice and contribute positively to the school community.
Overview
1
1
Certification
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Learning Support Assistant
Leeds City Academy
Leeds, West Yorkshire
02.2025 - 06.2026
- Supported students with a range of learning, behavioural and additional needs within a secondary school environment.
- Provided individualised support to help students engage with lessons and participate in school activities.
- Conducted one to one and group interventions tailored for the needs of pupils
- Worked closely with teachers and other school staff to support students' educational, social and wellbeing needs.
- Helped maintain a safe, inclusive and positive learning environment.
- Supported students in developing independence, confidence and appropriate behaviour.
- Followed individual support plans, school policies and safeguarding procedures.
- Built positive and respectful relationships with students while maintaining professional boundaries.
Positive Behaviour support worker
Ranstard Education Leeds
Leeds , West Yorkshire
04.2023 - 02.2025
- Supported children and young people with challenging behaviours using positive behaviour support approaches.
- Worked in accordance with individual Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) to provide personalised support.
- Collaborated with school staff, families and external professionals to provide consistent support.
- Helped maintain structured, safe and supportive learning environments.
- Used appropriate strategies to support students' behaviour, emotional wellbeing and engagement.
- Applied safeguarding procedures and risk-reduction strategies.
- Developed positive and professional relationships with young people.
Care and Support Worker
Henshaws Specialist college
Harrogate, North Yorkshire
02.2025 - 06.2026
- Provided compassionate, person-centred support to adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs and age-related conditions.
- Supported individuals with daily routines while promoting independence, dignity, choice and participation.
- Worked closely with colleagues to create a positive, supportive and safe environment.
- Followed individual care plans, organisational policies and safeguarding procedures.
- Maintained accurate records and communicated effectively with the wider support team.
- Adapted support to meet individual needs and encouraged participation in activities.
SEN Teaching Assistant
First Baptist Nursery and primary school
Abuja
09.2018 - 12.2022
- Developed, implemented, and reviewed IEPs for students with diverse learning needs.
- Collaborated with parents, teachers, and specialists to set and achieve realistic goals.
- Assisted in the general classroom to facilitate full participation of students with SEN.
- Developed and implemented behaviour management plans.
Education
Bachelor of Engineering -
Federal University of Agriculture
01-2016
Master of Science - Engineering
University of Bradford
01-2014
PGCE/QTS - PGCE In Science
Leeds Triniity University
Leeds 01-2027
Skills
- Science & Physics Subject Knowledge
- Learning Support & Student Engagement
- SEN / SEND Support
- Positive Behaviour Management and Classroom Support
- EHCP & Individual Learning Plans
- Safeguarding & Student Wellbeing
- Effective Communication
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Inclusive Learning & Differentiation
- Supporting Student Independence
- Organisation & Time Management
- Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking
Certification
- First Aid Certified
- Safeguarding Children and Adults
- Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)
- Makaton
- Manual Handling / Moving & Handling
- Level 2 Health and Social Care
- Full UK Driving Licence
References
- Available upon request
Timeline
Learning Support Assistant
Leeds City Academy
02.2025 - 06.2026
Care and Support Worker
Henshaws Specialist college
02.2025 - 06.2026
Positive Behaviour support worker
Ranstard Education Leeds
04.2023 - 02.2025
SEN Teaching Assistant
First Baptist Nursery and primary school
09.2018 - 12.2022
Master of Science - Engineering
University of Bradford
Bachelor of Engineering -
Federal University of Agriculture
PGCE/QTS - PGCE In Science
Leeds Triniity University