Lucy Bowling

A 2023 graduate with a 2.1 in Psychology with Criminology from the University of Sussex, I have worked for two years in a SEND college for young adults, while studying for a part time Masters degree in Special and Inclusive Education with University of Nottingham. This role has confirmed my passion for producing the best outcomes for students with SEND, and my Masters degree is enabling me to put into practice some new techniques for improving behaviour and life skills in my students. I would describe myself as caring, focused and determined. In my work there has been challenging situations to resolve, both on my own, and with the help of others. I am keen to keep learning in the area of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, and to find a role where I can continue to help others.

• Laura Vallone, Director at Brighton Forward, Brighton Forward
• Alan Dewar, University of Nottingham Academic Tutor.
• Deborah Kennedy, Manager at Suitsmen.co.uk.

Beaumont House Derby, Care home Volunteering, Derby

• Engaging the residents in Arts and crafts, and conversation, to help ensure they were happy, and interested in the activities.

Revitalise, Residential 2 week stay, Southport

• Looking after the guests with a range of problems including dementia and physical disability. Understanding the needs of those under my care and making sure that all these needs are met, particularly on outside trips. This volunteering started my interest in SEND, leading to the choice of psychology as a degree.

The Ark Animal Rescue Centre, Ashbourne, 

• Taking responsibility for the care of several dogs, learning reliability and empathy, being in control of my schedule and workload.

I attained my Bronze and then Gold Duke of Edinburgh awards between 2015 and 2019. These awards involved volunteering, learning a new skill, a long walk over several days, planning the route and camping using only the equipment and food we carried. The Gold award in particular was challenging, and taught me responsibility, team work, resilience, and the need to keep going when things get tough.

Learnt to row with Worthing rowing club and am about to compete in my first Regatta, completed several Sprint triathlons, and Brighton 10km run, enjoy going to the gym regularly, Captain of the under 18’s hockey team at Denstone College, played 1st and 2nd team lacrosse for Denstone College.