Lisa O’Connor
Downpatrick,Down
Summary
I consider myself to be dedicated with extensive skills in Makaton sign language, team teaching, and behaviour management strategies. Proven expertise in child development and after-school club management, complemented by strong communication and interpersonal skills. Good at problem-solving and organisational tasks, with a commitment to ongoing professional development. Trained in autism, ADHD, epilepsy care, and first aid safety protocols. A creative and adaptable team player with a focus on enhancing educational experiences for children. I am currently on my final year of my degree in Early Childhood with a dream of working in a nursery. I at all times strive to achieve results to the best of my ability. I would love the chance to build on my existing experiences and progress further in my career. I feel that I have the ability and knowledge to work alongside children and help them to thrive, learn and have fun in a structured school environment.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work history
ASEN Classroom Assistant
Education Authority
Dundonald, Lisburn and Castlereagh
08.2025 - Current
- Contributed to extracurricular activities, enriching student life outside academics.
- Provided one-on-one assistance to students, aiding their understanding of complex topics.
- Implemented behavioural management strategies suggested by teachers, maintaining a calm and focused classroom atmosphere.
- Actively participated in staff meetings to improve teaching methods and processes.
- Created an inclusive learning environment by promoting respect and empathy among students.
- Managed classroom resources effectively, ensuring accessibility for all pupils.
- Helped organise school trips, bringing real-world experiences into the curriculum.
- Promoted positive behaviour within the classroom setting, enhancing overall learning experience.
- Adapted teaching materials to suit individual learner needs for personalised education.
- Prepared visual aids for effective teaching techniques.
- Assisted in lesson planning, resulting in engaging class sessions.
- Supported teachers by preparing classroom materials.
- Ensured a safe learning environment by monitoring student behaviour.
- Provided friendly, enthusiastic support to pupils in individual and group support settings.
- Supervised pupils during lunchtimes and educational visits.
- Encouraged student interaction in group activities, maintaining sensitivity to various special needs requirements.
- Offered support to special needs students, guaranteeing safety and access to equitable learning.
Waitress supervisor
Paddy’s Barn Bar & Restaurant
Downpatrick, Newry Mourne and Down
03.2016 - 01.2019
- Initiated weekly team meetings for better communication among staff members.
- Ensured smooth restaurant operations during peak hours for seamless dining experience such as the Game of Thrones tour buses with 50+ people on board.
- Enforced strict cash handling procedures-minimising discrepancies at end-of-day tallies.
- Conducted regular inventory checks for optimal stock management.
- Adhered strictly to health and safety regulations, maintaining safe working conditions at all times.
- Facilitated communication between kitchen and front-of-house teams, leading to better operational flow.
Volunteer
CAPAA
Downpatrick, Newry Mourne and Down
10.2011 - 06.2012
- Working alongside other volunteers ensuring children are safe and happy.
- Working alongside a diverse range of children with disabilities.
Education
Diploma of Higher Education - Early Childhood
The Open University
Belfast 10/2020 -
Diploma of Higher Education - Education
Stonebridge Associated Colleges
Bournemouth, England 09/2013 - 06/2014
A-Levels - Art, ICT
St Mary’s High School
Downpatrick, Newry Mourne and Down 09/2010 - 06/2012
GCSEs - GSCES
St Mary’s High School
Downpatrick, Newry Mourne and Down 09/2006 - 06/2010
Skills
- Makaton sign language
- Team teach
- Reading partnership experience
- After-School club management
- Child development knowledge
- Communication and Interpersonal skills
- Problem solving
- Organisational skills
- First aid and Safety knowledge
- Creative
- Adaptable
- Good team worker
- Good time keeper
- Behaviour management strategies
- Commitment to ongoing professional developments and improvement
- Austim and ADHD training
- Epilepsy trained
Timeline
ASEN Classroom Assistant
Education Authority
08.2025 - Current
Waitress supervisor
Paddy’s Barn Bar & Restaurant
03.2016 - 01.2019
Volunteer
CAPAA
10.2011 - 06.2012
Diploma of Higher Education - Early Childhood
The Open University
10/2020 -
Diploma of Higher Education - Education
Stonebridge Associated Colleges
09/2013 - 06/2014
A-Levels - Art, ICT
St Mary’s High School
09/2010 - 06/2012
GCSEs - GSCES
St Mary’s High School
09/2006 - 06/2010