Leah Bonnell

During my PGCE, I have gained teaching experience across all progression steps, developing strong skills in planning, delivering, assessing and evaluating learning in line with the Curriculum for Wales. I have extensive experience working in mixed-age classrooms, differentiating learning effectively to meet the individual needs of pupils of different ages, and abilities. My experience at Ferryside VCP School has progressed from volunteering and lunchtime supervision to teaching assistant roles, one-to-one ALN support and completing my PGCE alongside school-based employment. I have supported pupils with ALN through targeted one-to-one and small-group interventions, adapting activities to promote independence, confidence and engagement. I work effectively alongside class teachers and support staff and use observations and assessment to inform future learning. I have planned and delivered engaging, purposeful learning experiences; including creative projects that develop pupils’ digital competence through animation, advertising posters and video creation. I am committed to building positive and trusting relationships with pupils, promoting their academic, social and emotional development, while maintaining high standards of safeguarding and pupil safety. My experience has developed my ability to create inclusive learning environments, respond to individual needs and provide appropriate challenge and support for all learners.

Developed and delivered engaging educational activities for children aged 18 months to 3 years, supporting early learning, development and wellbeing. Gained valuable experience in early childhood development, communication and play-based learning; creating nurturing and inclusive learning environments. Supported children to develop their independence, confidence and communication skills through purposeful play, while responding to their individual needs and stages of development. Worked collaboratively as part of a small team, supporting the room leader with planning and contributing ideas for engaging activities and meaningful learning experiences.

Worked in a community pharmacy, gaining extensive experience in the accurate and confidential handling of prescription medications while working under pharmacist supervision and adhering to strict regulatory standards. Completed two NVQs and developed strong organisational and attention-to-detail skills through assisting with medication preparation, accurately processing prescriptions and managing patients’ monitored dosage system to ensure medications were prepared and delivered correctly. Communicated effectively with patients and pharmacy staff, managing time efficiently to meet the needs of a busy community pharmacy. I was also responsible for restocking pharmacy shelves, monitoring inventory and preparing expired medications for return, demonstrating reliability, organisation and a high level of accuracy in all aspects of my role.