I have led daily meetings, fostering open dialogue regarding student progress and concerns with all stake-holders. In particular, leading annual review meetings within the EHCP process, keeping within the county council timeframes, liasing with outside professionals and the school SENO to secure additional funding where necessary and to discuss transition to college placements post 18.
I have improved learner engagement by implementing innovative teaching methods, particularly focused on learner interests and a high aspiration, low demand approach.
I have promoted positive behaviour amongst students by following appropriate disciplinary measures, based around trauma informed and restorative practice, amongst other strategies surrounding emotional regulation and self-reflection.
I have liaised effectively with local community organisations, strengthening school-community ties.
I have collaborated closely with the headteacher and wider SLT on strategic planning and leading operationally, supporting the decision-making processes to drive school improvements.
Supported curriculum design innovation to better meet the needs of SEN learners. Within an SEMH primary setting and also within an all through 2-19 setting for learners with moderate to severe and profound learning difficulties.
Coordinated extracurricular activities, broadening students' educational experiences, including work experience placements for our older learners.
Ensured compliance with Ofsted regulations during inspections securing good ratings consistently.
I underwent DSL training and have been working operationally as a DDSL for the school.
Underwent safer recruitment training and have been involved in the recruitment process for support staff.
I have led and motivated teaching and support staff to continuously improve knowledge and abilities for optimum learner outcomes. This has been a big part of my job as lead practitioner, working alongside unqualified teachers and ECT's to improve practice.
SEN Teacher
The Gallery Trust
Oxford, Oxfordshire
09.2017 - 04.2024
Adapted teaching methods according to each child's requirements, facilitating better comprehension of subjects. This was vitally important when considering each learner's profile and what would motivate/trigger them. Often teaching methods needed to be adapted within the lesson itself.
Conducted regular parent-teacher meetings to discuss student progress and address any concerns they had.
Fostered an inclusive atmosphere in class through respectful interaction with all students irrespective of their abilities or backgrounds, and through role modelling encouraged the learners to do the same.
Developed strong rapport with students, improving their confidence and participation in classroom activities, having particular success with pupils demonstrating a PDA profile.
Implemented behavioural management strategies to maintain discipline within the classroom, in line with whole school policy and following individual learners PHP's.
Participated enthusiastically in school-wide events demonstrating commitment towards building a vibrant school community.
Incorporated practical activities into lesson plans aimed at making learning fun and interesting.
Provided emotional support to students, resulting in a more conducive learning environment. This was through careful planning and carried out on an individual basis but also through small group and whole class initiatives.
Created a safe and inclusive classroom setting, encouraging open dialogue among students.
Maintained comprehensive records of each child's academic progression and behavioural patterns.
Managed student behaviour, intervening in crisis situations to resolve conflicts, using team teach methods and trained to advanced level.
Offered guidance and advice to parents on educational and social matters relating to SEN students. As a parent of a child with SEMH I am passionate about supporting parents with a listening ear and strategies they can try at home.
Underwent trauma recovery training with 'Betsy D'Tierry' as well as training from play therapists, art therapists and restorative practice training.
Supported the development of a mentoring programme, in place of lesson observations, in order to self-reflect and share good practice across the school.
Ran a successful school council and implemented a visit to the Houses of Parliament for our learners to find out more regarding democracy and citizenship. Also worked to fundraise at school events, using the money to improve some of the outside areas.
Set clear short-term and long-term goals to help SEN student progression.
Teacher in a primary school
Fringford Primary school (OCC)
Fringford, Oxfordshire
09.2016 - 09.2017
Lead on RE in a church of England School, managing to secure an outstanding result in a SIAMS inspection.
All responsibilities for teaching, learning and assessment within a small mainstream primary school.
Planning intervention groups for designated TA's and guiding their work with individual learners with SEN.
Photographer
Self-employed
Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire
09.2016 - 09.2017
Updated professional knowledge continuously attending relevant workshops or courses improving skills and techniques.
Identified suitable locations for outdoor shoots enhancing overall visual effect.
Collaborated with clients to understand their vision for resulting in personalised photo shoots.
Gained mastery over various photo editing software enhancing final image quality.
Enhanced client satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality photographs.
Maintained a creative portfolio showcasing work attracting prospective clients.
Studied composition rules but also broke them intentionally creating unique photographic effects.
Excelled in capturing candid moments preserving authenticity of events and emotions.
Created strong rapport with clients during photo shoots, helping to capture individual personality in each image.
Teacher in a primary school
Glory Farm School (OCC)
Bicester, Oxfordshire
09.1999 - 09.2016
Developed innovative lesson plans to nurture creativity among pupils and used assessment effectively to drive learning forward.
Participated in continuous professional development workshops staying abreast of latest teaching methodologies. This included me being part of a OUP case study research programme into the effectiveness of the Singapore Maths methodology.
Improved student literacy skills through reading comprehension, guided reading and implementation of the National Literacy Strategy.
Supported the integration of special educational needs students into mainstream classes, something Glory Farm prided itself on.
Regularly updated parents about their child's progress maintaining open lines of communication, through various methods.
Managed classroom behaviour effectively, ensuring an optimal learning environment for all students. As a school we had training from team teach and also from an autism team. We had interesting and informative training on creative curriculum and play based strategies to embed learning across all subjects.
Fulfilled curriculum requirements by planning and delivering engaging lessons.
Encouraged active participation in class discussions, fostering a positive learning environment, leading on initiatives such as 'philosophy for kids' and L4L (learning for life). I also lead PSHCE for the school for a time.
Initiated after-school tutoring sessions assisting struggling learners meet their academic goals. This was aimed at raising attainment levels in year 6 SATS.
Facilitated extracurricular activities, specifically drama clubs and school choir.
Prepared and presented reports to parents.
Helped to organise and took part in school events, outings and activities happening during weekends and evenings, including residential visits.
Used classroom displays to support engaging lesson delivery and enhance student understanding.
Education
BEd Hons QTS education - Education
Leeds Metropolitan University
Leeds
09.1996 - 07.1999
Skills
Communication - I am able to deal with situations as they arise in a considered and compassionate way
Problem solving - I enjoy problem solving, especially within a team dynamic
Connection - I connect well with learners and have had much success in restorative conversations and in dynamically reading situations to work for the best outcomes for learners
Resilience - It is hard to work in SEMH without resilience and particularly when schools require a shift in culture or approach
Professionalism - I am trustworthy and deal with all professionals, family members and learners with respect and open mindedness
Creative thinking - I believe that the education sector must begin to 'think outside the box' to create the best future outcomes for learners from all backgrounds
Calm - I handle situations with a calm approach, including medical emergencies, although can become rather passionate in team meetings!
Design/Trade Consultant at RH – The Gallery at Cherry Creek & The Gallery at Highland VillageDesign/Trade Consultant at RH – The Gallery at Cherry Creek & The Gallery at Highland Village