Leah Ferguson

Tranent,East Lothian

Summary

Dedicated professional with a strong foundation in empathy and active listening, adept at building positive, trusting relationships with children and adults. Experienced in supporting individuals with diverse additional support needs through one-to-one and group interventions that promote inclusion and participation. Skilled in effective communication with pupils, families, and multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating patience, understanding, and adaptability in challenging situations. Proficient in behavioural management, conflict resolution techniques, and safeguarding practices to promote emotional wellbeing. Committed to planning and facilitating structured therapeutic activities within safe, supportive environments that encourage independence, self-esteem, and personal growth. Passionate about equality, diversity, and trauma-informed practice as core principles guiding professional conduct.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work history

Additional Support Needs Auxiliary

East Lothian Council

Tranent, East Lothian

08.2022 - Current

Supported children with diverse additional support needs in primary school environment.
Provided one-to-one and group assistance to facilitate curriculum access and skill development.
Collaborated with teachers, support staff, and parents to implement individual learning plans.
Created an inclusive classroom atmosphere that fostered independence and confidence.

Equine Therapy Facilitator

Karele Equine

Haddington, East Lothian

01.2018 - Current

Proficient Equine Therapy Facilitator experienced in supporting children and adults affected by various forms of abuse. Skilled in using horse-assisted activities to foster emotional healing, enhance confidence, and develop communication and coping skills. Committed to establishing a safe, supportive environment customised to individual needs while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and support services. Demonstrating compassion, patience, and resilience in helping participants rebuild trust, improve wellbeing and achieve personal growth through therapeutic engagement with horses.

Skills

Strong empathy and active listening skills
ability to build positive, trusting relationships with children and adults
experience supporting individuals with diverse additional support needs
skills in one-to-one and group support to promote inclusion and participation
effective communication with pupils, families and multidisciplinary teams
patience, understanding and adaptability in challenging situations

behavioural management and conflict resolution techniques
safeguarding and promiting emotional wellbeing
planning and facilitating structured therapeutic activities
creating safe, supportive and engaging enviroments
Encouraging indépendance, self esteem and personal growth
commitment to equality, diversity and trauma-informed practice

Timeline