Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Louisa Muntus

Worksop,United Kingdom

Summary

I am an outgoing person, who enjoys an active lifestyle, thriving on the thrill of a challenge and the variety of school life, whilst maintaining a professional and caring approach in all situations. I believe that these values would lend themselves to the role and responsibilities of a Primary Teacher, within a vibrant and lively primary school.


As a result of my work, both paid and unpaid, at Prospect Hill Junior School in Worksop, as a Teaching Assistant at Clowne Junior School in Derbyshire and most recently throughout placements with Aston Community Education Trust, I have been able to gain first-hand experience of some of the challenges faced by children, including those with Special Educational Needs, in a mainstream setting. The children themselves have taught me the importance of using a variety of methods to explain, understand and overcome issues, which act as a barrier to their learning, the importance of building strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect, and the necessity of maintaining a strong teaching team to support them, and their families, for the provision of a truly child-centred education. I have truly enjoyed my time working with the children of all schools and have often walked through the gates, at both the beginning and the end of the day, with a smile on my face, knowing that together, we make a difference.


Previously, in my role at Clowne Junior School, I was fortunate to be asked to accompany my year 4 class on their residential trip to the Peak District National Park. This was an amazing experience and one that I hope to repeat again. In the challenging, yet relaxed and informal atmosphere, I was able to witness and encourage each child to fulfil their potential outside the classroom, encouraging children to face their fears and grab hold of the opportunities in front of them, along with the zip-wire! The experience was unforgettable and has encouraged me to strive for excellence and to empower achievement, wherever it may lie. This ethos is particularly well demonstrated through my volunteer work with St. John Ambulance, especially working within the youth team, supporting children aged 5 - 16 years. Together, we strive to offer acceptance, empathy and a nurturing environment which empowers young people to embrace individualities and achieve their goals and ambitions, fulfilling their potential and valuing both their individual and collective identities.


Since embarking on my role as Trainee Teacher, I have sought to expand my knowledge and skill set, to ensure that I am able to provide the children and my team with the support that they require and deserve. I have achieved this through additional study and volunteering for additional experiences which have expanded both my understanding and skill set, including the Philosophy for Children and Trauma Informed Schools Training. I have flourished in my placements and have earned distinctions within my Masters level academic studies, demonstrating my commitment to the children and the families I serve. I can truly say that I find personal fulfilment through helping children to fulfil their own aspirations, whatever they may be.


Personally, my time as a mother has ultimately brought about the evolution of my career aspirations over a number of years. Both motherhood and my previous classroom experiences have demonstrated the joy and laughter that children can bring, the excitement to be gained from seeing their development of a new skill, not to mention their infectious curiosity and wonder.


My previous experiences within the legal arena have taught me the importance of a structured and documented foundation, providing the ability to face vigorous and varied challenges, whist also allowing for spontaneity, whether those moments arise during planning, preparation or performance. These skills have served me well as a Trainee Primary Teacher, a role which necessitates clear, detailed and robust planning, complemented by dynamic problem solving, to achieve a thorough, adaptable and enjoyable education for the children and fellow staff alike.


I have valued the opportunity to develop skills through volunteering from an early age. My volunteer work with St. John Ambulance has been particularly useful in developing skills which have already proven themselves useful in an educational setting. Whilst in my role as a First Aider, I have taught children as young as 5, how to perform life saving first aid skills, including the use of CPR and defibrillator application. I have been expected to give clear, detailed instructions as to life-saving skills, explaining these fully and comprehensively to members of all ages and to the general public through awareness events. I have also been required to follow given instructions quickly and safely, highlighting the importance of teamwork and leadership. By virtue of my role, I have learnt the importance of diplomacy, efficiency, multitasking and prioritising, all whilst under extreme pressure.

Throughout my time working within schools, I have witnessed the dramatic effect made every day by teaching staff and have seen the benefit of tailored and differentiated activities to keep individual children engaged in their curriculum. I have comforted children when they have lost close relatives, bandaged knees, reflected on behaviours with pupils and acted as a diplomat in playground and OPAL negotiations. I have assisted students with English as an additional language in understanding new vocabulary and have seen them wear their accomplishments on their faces for the entire day. I have sat with an overstimulated child until they are able to communicate. I have had the benefit of experiencing first-hand how a change in teaching method can make a concept ‘click’ for those who are struggling and have shared the joy in the realisation that a barrier has now become an opportunity. I have used scaffolding and opened discussions to allow the children explore new ideas and to validate their own theories. I have reminded students of their learning objectives to keep their focus and paused maths lessons to demonstrate, in the concrete, concepts that pupils have struggled with, so that they can move forward with their learning. I have drawn on my own experiences of the wider world of work to demonstrate to pupils that whilst they may not grow to be mathematicians, they will use the mathematical concepts covered in our curriculum every day. I have sung and danced along with YouTube videos of times tables to embrace different forms of learning. I have modelled a growth mindset and allowed children to witness my 'challenges' as a method of developing their own resilience to use when faced with similar difficulties. Learning does not come in a one-size-fits-all approach and the excitement of finding new methods to help rehearse and embed skills for children is part of what makes teaching a calling rather than simply a career.


My personal aspirations are to be involved with a lively, dynamic and truly inclusive primary setting, which values the role of play for all children, working alongside equally active, inquisitive and responsive colleagues.


Overview

16
16
years of professional experience

Work history

Trainee Teacher

Aston Community Education Trust
Rotherham, South Yorkshire
09.2024 - Current
  • Adapted lesson plans to accommodate individual learning needs.
  • Enhanced understanding in pupils, utilising diverse teaching methods.
  • Demonstrated patience whilst addressing behavioural issues among students, according to the School's Behaviour Policy.
  • Delivered lessons according to school curriculum guidelines; ensured consistency in teaching standards across all classrooms.
  • Utilised technology effectively in delivering lessons and tracking student progress.
  • Collaborated with colleagues for development of effective lesson plans.
  • Maintained records of student attendance, grades, and behaviour reports meticulously.
  • Facilitated parent-teacher meetings, strengthening communication channels.
  • Worked closely with special needs students to provide individual attention and support.
  • Managed classroom effectively to maintain discipline and focus.
  • Fostered a positive learning environment by implementing creative teaching strategies.
  • Boosted student success by maximising individual learning, balancing group and individual instruction models to accommodate different academic levels.
  • Maintained punctuality, organisation and routine to facilitate a well-focused teaching and learning environment.
  • Balanced university-based study alongside weekly teaching duties.
  • Developed interventions for students currently struggling or at risk of falling behind.
  • Stimulated critical thinking through effective questioning.
  • Completed in-service and additional training to maintain professional growth.

Community First Aider

St John Ambulance
Rotherham, South Yorkshire
10.2014 - Current
  • Updated knowledge on latest first aid techniques regularly, enhancing service quality.
  • Trained colleagues in basic first aid procedures, enhancing workplace safety measures.
  • Maintained calm environment during emergencies to ease patients' distress.
  • Attended to injuries for immediate relief.
  • Kept first aid kits well-stocked and ready for immediate use in emergencies.
  • Comforted distressed individuals using empathy and good listening skills during difficult situations.
  • Prepared detailed incident reports accurately, providing valuable information for subsequent medical treatment.
  • Practised confidentiality whilst dealing with sensitive patient information following data protection laws closely.
  • Assisted paramedics on scene, improving overall patient care.
  • Demonstrated use of first aid equipment to educate others and promote safety awareness.

Teaching assistant in primary school

Clowne Junior School
Clowne, Derbyshire
09.2022 - 08.2024

Duties included:

  • Safeguarding of children, record keeping, ensuring compliance with KCSiE,

• Ensuring compliance with GDPR,

• First aid provision, record keeping and liaising with parents,

• 1:1 teaching of a student with multiple SEND requirements,

• Liaising with outside agencies and medical professionals,

• Liaising with parents through a variety of methods including written, electronic, telephone and face-to-face consultations,

• Toileting Provision and administration of medication and medical aids (Insulin pumps, Oxygen, CPAP and suction machinery, Buccal training),

• Whole class support - provision of temporary cover for absence, assistance with whole group learning, school trip supervision, marking,

• 1:1 bespoke provision,

• Supervision of Outside Play and Learning,

• Intervention provision (planning, delivering and monitoring pre and post-teach intervention, handwriting, gross motor skills, phonics, maths support),

• Behavioural interventions, ensuring compliance with school policy,

• Involvement with summer fairs, parent workshops and wider school events, such as performances, parents' evenings and open evenings,

• Lunchtime supervision, and

• Supervision of Forest School Activities (Under the lead of a qualified instructor)

Midday supervisor

Prospect Hill Junior School
Worksop, Nottinghamshire
11.2021 - 07.2022
  • Assisted younger students with mealtime tasks, fostering independence.
  • Inspected school premises for potential hazards to minimise risk.
  • Encouraged respectful behaviour amongst peers to foster an inclusive environment.
  • Maintained clean dining facilities to ensure a hygienic environment.
  • Monitored student behaviour during lunch breaks, maintaining order and implementing the school behaviour policy.
  • Mediated conflicts between students to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.
  • Provided first aid assistance when required, prioritising pupil's wellbeing.

Parent Volunteer

Broadway Infant School
Yate, South Gloucestershire
11.2017 - 02.2020
  • Quickly learned and applied new skills to daily tasks, improving efficiency and productivity.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Prepared classroom materials to facilitate efficient lessons.
  • Cultivated close working relationships with students and teaching staff.
  • Collaborated with teaching staff in organising school events, fostering community spirit.
  • Offered one-on-one guidance to struggling students for improved academic performance.
  • Led small group sessions for enhanced focus on challenging topics.
  • Supervised students in classrooms, halls, cafeterias, school yards, and gymnasiums, or on field trips, providing a safe, supportive environment.

Legal Assistant

Bartons Solicitors
Bristol, Bristol
11.2014 - 04.2015
  • Drafted complex legal documents for successful property transactions.
  • Ensured client satisfaction with timely and accurate communication.
  • Managed highly confidential information with utmost discretion and professionalism.
  • Compiled detailed property reports, from search results for quick reference by clients.
  • Assisted clients in understanding the conveyancing process, fostering a sense of trust and confidence.
  • Worked diligently on land registry applications for successful submissions.
  • Prepared final accounts correctly at the completion stage; ensured funds were transferred accurately.

Legal Assistant

Henriques Griffiths LLP
Bristol, Bristol
05.2014 - 11.2014
  • Reviewed contracts on behalf of clients, identifying potential risks or liabilities and advising of their significance.
  • Conducted comprehensive due diligence for corporate transactions, ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Participated in continuous professional development training regularly-ensured provision of latest legal advice.
  • Drafted legal advice for clients, enabling an informed decision-making process.
  • Kept updated records meticulously, guaranteeing easy retrieval during audits or follow-ups.
  • Interpreted deeds and wills accurately for the correct execution of the conveyancing processes.
  • Coordinated effectively with banks and building societies to arrange mortgages on behalf of clients.
  • Prepared final accounts correctly at the completion stage; ensured funds were transferred accurately.
  • Worked diligently on land registry applications for successful submissions.
  • Completed tasks efficiently under tight deadlines, maintaining high-quality standards throughout each transaction.
  • Conducted detailed property research to ensure a clear title.

Senior Legal Assistant

Co-Operative Legal Services
Bristol, Bristol
07.2011 - 05.2014
  • Improved client relationships with effective communication and clarification of the legal process.
  • Represented clients in MOJ proceedings, advocating their rights and interests effectively.
  • Maintained strict confidentiality around sensitive information; strengthened trust between lawyer and client.
  • Managed high-volume case loads whilst maintaining exceptional standards of professionalism and efficacy.
  • Drafted legal advice for clients, enabling informed decision-making process.

Legal Assistant

Leech & Co.
Bath, Somerset
06.2010 - 06.2011
  • Achieved favourable outcomes by meticulously preparing case briefs and legal documents.
  • Negotiated settlements for civil disputes, resulting in satisfactory resolutions.
  • Drafted legal advice for clients, enabling an informed decision-making process.
  • Analysed probable case outcomes using knowledge of legal precedents.
  • Evaluated and tracked client progress throughout the process.
  • Instructed and liaised with medical services.
  • Reviewed medical reports, advising on quantum and potential redress.

Case Handler

Knight Legal Services
Gloucester , Gloucestershire
02.2010 - 06.2010
  • Resolved complex issues of liability with detailed research and analysis.
  • Utilised legal knowledge to interpret regulations, resulting in accurate decisions.
  • Managed and prioritised a high volume of cases efficiently, maintaining high-quality standards and meeting rigorous deadlines.
  • Communicated effectively with all involved parties for the successful resolution of cases.
  • Facilitated effective end-to-end case management for a portfolio of 200 clients.

Sales Assistant

Toys r Us
Bristol, Bristol
10.2009 - 02.2010
  • Managed till operations smoothly, reducing waiting time for customers.
  • Balanced multiple tasks simultaneously whilst maintaining high-quality customer care.
  • Addressed customer needs promptly, resulting in positive feedback and loyalty.
  • Maintained knowledge of current sales promotions, helping customers make informed buying decisions.

Education

Post Graduate Certificate of Education - Education

Sheffield Hallam University
Sheffield
09.2024 -

TQUK Level 2 Certificate - Understanding Distressed Behaviour in Children

The Skills Network
Online
09.2023 - 11.2023

CACHE Level 2 - Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

Weymouth College
Dorset
03.2023 - 07.2023

CACHE Level 2 - Understanding Autism

Weymouth College
Dorset
01.2023 - 03.2023

Post Graduate Diploma - Legal Practice

The University of Sheffield
Sheffield
09.2008 - 07.2009

Bachelor of Arts - Law (LLb)

The University of Sheffield
Sheffield
09.2005 - 07.2008

GCSEs -

Brinsworth Comprehensive School
Rotherham
09.2001 - 07.2003

A-Levels -

Brinsworth Comprehensive School
Rotherham
09.2003 - 07.2005

Skills

  • Lesson planning, including adapted provision to overcome multiple barriers to learning
  • Strong written and verbal communicator to a variety of audiences
  • Compliance with KCSiE and GDPR protocols
  • First Aid Trained
  • Keen interest in Reading for Pleasure and the Pedagogy of Play

Timeline

Trainee Teacher

Aston Community Education Trust
09.2024 - Current

Post Graduate Certificate of Education - Education

Sheffield Hallam University
09.2024 -

TQUK Level 2 Certificate - Understanding Distressed Behaviour in Children

The Skills Network
09.2023 - 11.2023

CACHE Level 2 - Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

Weymouth College
03.2023 - 07.2023

CACHE Level 2 - Understanding Autism

Weymouth College
01.2023 - 03.2023

Teaching assistant in primary school

Clowne Junior School
09.2022 - 08.2024

Midday supervisor

Prospect Hill Junior School
11.2021 - 07.2022

Parent Volunteer

Broadway Infant School
11.2017 - 02.2020

Legal Assistant

Bartons Solicitors
11.2014 - 04.2015

Community First Aider

St John Ambulance
10.2014 - Current

Legal Assistant

Henriques Griffiths LLP
05.2014 - 11.2014

Senior Legal Assistant

Co-Operative Legal Services
07.2011 - 05.2014

Legal Assistant

Leech & Co.
06.2010 - 06.2011

Case Handler

Knight Legal Services
02.2010 - 06.2010

Sales Assistant

Toys r Us
10.2009 - 02.2010

Post Graduate Diploma - Legal Practice

The University of Sheffield
09.2008 - 07.2009

Bachelor of Arts - Law (LLb)

The University of Sheffield
09.2005 - 07.2008

A-Levels -

Brinsworth Comprehensive School
09.2003 - 07.2005

GCSEs -

Brinsworth Comprehensive School
09.2001 - 07.2003
Louisa Muntus