Gemma Sharp
Peacehaven
Summary
Dedicated Education Professional experienced in promoting positive behaviour and implementing active learning practices. Achieved student engagement and holistic growth through effective communication with parents and strong special education knowledge, including SEND inclusion strategies. Focused on fostering safe, nurturing environments that support child protection and safeguarding while ensuring academic success.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work history
Class Teacher and Outreach Teacher
Downs View Special Schoool
Brighton, Brighton and Hove
2022.01 - Current
- Implemented innovative teaching strategies to engage students in the learning process.
- Adapted teaching methods to meet diverse student needs and abilities, enhancing individual learning experiences.
- Prepared detailed performance reports for each pupil, aiding in targeted support and intervention planning.
- Assisted teachers and support staff in mainstream schools by providing guidance on teaching strategies for pupils with SLD. Guided staff to use methods to support the pupils' EHCP.
- Collaborated with colleagues to organise school events, fundraising initiatives, and projects, fostering community engagement and support.
Makaton Tutor and self employed work
Self Employed
Brighton, Brighton and Hove
2015.09 - Current
- Facilitated Makaton training sessions for parents, carers, and professionals, improving their communication skills and strategies for supporting children.
- Ran communication sessions for children with SEN aged 2 to 16, utilising PECS, Makaton, aided language boards, and Intensive Interaction; taught rebound therapy, toddler yoga, baby massage, and baby signing classes.
- Adapted teaching style for individual learning capabilities.
- Collaborated with parents and teachers, aligning tutoring approaches with school curriculum.
- Encouraged open communication during sessions, enhancing comfort levels and participation rates.
Class teacher
Herons Dale Primary school
2018.09 - 2020.12
- Planned, taught and assessed SLD, CCLD pupils to enhance learning outcomes. Managed staff and mentored trainee teacher to support professional development. Trained staff, parents and carers in Makaton to improve communication and support for pupils.
- Fostered a positive learning environment by maintaining strong classroom discipline.
- Communicated effectively with parents regarding students' progress and behaviour issues.
- Maintained up-to-date records of each student's academic progress and attendance.
Class teacher
Woodlands Meed school
2014.01 - 2018.08
- Planned, taught, and assessed PMLD and SLD pupils aged 2 ½ to 14, fostering individual learning and development. Taught rebound therapy and trained staff in Makaton to enhance communication and engagement for pupils.
- Incorporated hands-on activities into daily lessons to boost comprehension levels.
- Realised improvement in behaviour management by implementing consistent rules and consequences.
- Offered emotional support for students dealing with personal challenges or difficulties.
Class teacher
Chailey Heritage School
2013.04 - 2013.12
- Facilitated personalised learning and development for pupils in key stage 2 with Cerebral Palsy and sensory needs.
- Realised improvement in behaviour management by implementing consistent rules and consequences.
- Maintained up-to-date records of each student's academic progress and attendance.
- Participated actively in staff development training programmes and workshops.
Class teacher
Herons Dale Primary School
2009.09 - 2013.04
- Planned, assessed and delivered tailored learning for 6 children with special needs, collaborating with parents and professionals to create annual reviews, behaviour management plans, and personalised learning plans.
- Adapted teaching methods for diverse student needs and abilities.
- Promoted inclusion within the classroom, ensuring equal opportunities for all learners.
- Supported and facilitated engaging classroom activities three days a week at Herons Dale School, enhancing student participation and learning outcomes.
- Communicated effectively with parents regarding students' progress and behaviour issues.
1:1 teaching assistant
Herons Dale Primary School
Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex
2009.04 - 2009.07
- Supported a boy with Autism in implementing his individual curriculum, enhancing communication skills through PECS.
- Organised outdoor activities for physical development and enjoyment of nature.
- Facilitated social development through group projects and team-building exercises.
- Implemented effective behaviour management strategies for a harmonious classroom atmosphere.
Education
PGCE - Science 7-14 years
Sussex University
Brighton 1 2006 - 1 2007
PGC - Sports Science of Coaching
Southbank University
London 1 2004 - 1 2005
BSc Hons - Sports Science
Brighton University
Eastbourne 1 2001 - 1 2004
A Level - PE, Human biology, General Studies
Varndean College
Brighton 1 1998 - 1 2000
GCSE - undefined
Dorothy Stringer High School
Brighton 1 1993 - 1 1998
Skills
- Special education practices
- Behaviour management
- Inclusion strategies
- Child safeguarding
- Active learning
- Behaviour promotion
- Parent communication
- Time management
- Interpersonal skills
COMMUNICATION
I have delivered inset days, parent and carer training for the children I have taught. I have been able to adapt my communication style to suit the needs of the others I am working with, practice to better suit the needs of the children I teach.
LEADERSHIP
I have managed a team of teaching assistants and for the last 7 years have been a mentor for a trainee teacher. I have been a member of the senior leadership team, safeguarding team and have been a reference for a number of students who have gone on to become teachers themselves.
Affiliations
- Running and competing for a local running club, swimming, cycling, being outdoors with my dogs.
Timeline
Class Teacher and Outreach Teacher
Downs View Special Schoool
2022.01 - Current
Class teacher
Herons Dale Primary school
2018.09 - 2020.12
Makaton Tutor and self employed work
Self Employed
2015.09 - Current
Class teacher
Woodlands Meed school
2014.01 - 2018.08
Class teacher
Chailey Heritage School
2013.04 - 2013.12
Class teacher
Herons Dale Primary School
2009.09 - 2013.04
1:1 teaching assistant
Herons Dale Primary School
2009.04 - 2009.07
GCSE - undefined
Dorothy Stringer High School
1 1993 - 1 1998
A Level - PE, Human biology, General Studies
Varndean College
1 1998 - 1 2000
BSc Hons - Sports Science
Brighton University
1 2001 - 1 2004
PGC - Sports Science of Coaching
Southbank University
1 2004 - 1 2005
PGCE - Science 7-14 years
Sussex University
1 2006 - 1 2007