Nadia Smith
Edinburgh
Summary
I'm a high energy, people focused creative who loves bringing positivity and connection into everything I do. I'm compassionate, resilient and people focused with hands‑on experience supporting children and young people in both day and residential settings. I bring a calm, empathetic and non‑judgemental approach, with a strong ability to build trust, maintain emotional safety and respond thoughtfully to challenging behaviour. As a neurodivergent individual, I have a deep understanding of neurodiversity, non‑verbal communication and the importance of consistency and emotional regulation. Music and art are a huge part of my life, I'm a musician and visual creator. Creativity is at the heart of how I see the world. I'm also inspired by nature, which keeps me grounded and fuels my imagination. Whatever I'm doing, I bring passion and a genuine love for helping people feel included and uplifted. I am reflective, emotionally resilient and thrive in team‑based environments.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work history
Performance Elf (Seasonal)
Dobbies Garden Centres
Lasswade, Midlothian
11.2025 - 12.2025
- Worked as a performance elf within the Christmas Grotto, supporting children and families to have a positive, inclusive and memorable experience.
- Supported children of all ages, including those with additional support needs and disabilities, adapting communication style and pace to meet individual needs.
- Took part in designated Quiet Grotto sessions for children with disabilities and sensory sensitivities ensuring a calm, regulated and welcoming environment.
- Worked closely with animals as part of the grotto experience, ensuring their welfare while supporting safe and gentle interactions.
- Demonstrated patience, emotional awareness and flexibility, particularly with non-verbal children or those who required extra reassurance and time.
- Maintained safeguarding awareness at all times while working in busy, public-facing environments.
- Worked closely with colleagues to ensure clear communication and positive experiences for every child.
Day/ Residential Camp Leader (Seasonal)
The Wild Outdoors
Edinburgh
03.2024 - 08.2025
- Supported children and young people aged 4–16 in both day and residential settings, including those with neurodivergence and additional support needs.
- Acted as a consistent and trusted adult during residential stays of 2–7 days, supporting emotional regulation, routines and wellbeing.
- Ensured physical and emotional safety at all times through clear boundaries, risk awareness and calm de‑escalation strategies.
- Supported young people with daily routines, personal care where appropriate, transitions and structured activities.
- Worked closely with colleagues, teachers and leaders to share observations, adapt support approaches and ensure consistency of care.
- Led outdoor activities, walks and creative sessions that promoted confidence, independence and positive social interaction.
- Responded effectively to challenging behaviour using patience, empathy and trauma informed approaches.
- Organised a full days itinerary of games and nature adventures
- Helped with the the kitchen work, making and serving food for over 80 children.
Sales Executive (B2B)
Intelling Ltd
Belfast
06.2022 - 07.2023
- I was tasked with building long term rapport with businesses and keeping them engaged and informed with our solution throughout the whole process to close a sale. Our goal was to hit 3 sales a day with a minimum of £680 per day in revenue; I averaged £1000 per day most days, but lead quality had an impact. This made me the top saleswoman in the Belfast office. I often went beyond my duties and voiced my team's opinions to management regardless of what arguments may come with it, showcasing my desire to help and be a good team member.
Social media manager/ Marketing
LV Telecoms
Irvinestown
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Developed and executed comprehensive social media strategies across various platforms to enhance brand visibility and engagement.
- Managed daily content calendars, including creation of compelling graphics, videos and copywriting.
- Actively managed online communities, fostering positive interactions and responding to inquiries to build customer loyalty.
- Beyond social, orchestrated digital marketing initiatives spanning email, content and potentially paid advertising, all aimed at expanding market reach and boosting online presence.
Education
UAL Level 3 Music Production & Performance -
Edinburgh College
Edinburgh 09/2025 -
NVQ Level 2 Music Production -
Bridgewater College
SomersetCommunication & Retail NVQ Level 3 - undefined
SWC Enniskillen
EnniskillenGSCE's -
St Fancheas College
EnniskillenSkills
- Positive attitude
- Work well in a team
- Intensive Music Knowledge
- Calm and consistent approach to challenging behaviour
- Building trusting, supportive relationships with children and adults
- Excellent communication skills
- Creative, engaging and activity‑led support (music, art, outdoor play)
- Interpersonal Skills
- Emotional resilience and ability to remain regulated under pressure
- Written Communication
- Supporting independence and daily living skills
- Problem Solving & Quick thinking
- Safeguarding awareness and child‑centred practice
- Empathetic Listening
Personal Information
Date of birth: 09/12/1994
References
References available upon request
Extra-Curricular Activities
Volunteering, Elephant sanctuary, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 2023-07-01 Volunteering, British Red Cross, Enniskillen, 2019-01-01 Traffic team, Kelburn garden party, Fairlie, 2024-07-01 Traffic team, Knockengorrach festival, Dumfries, 2025-05-01 Volunteering, The Bothy Boutique, Edinburgh, 2025-01-01 Volunteering, Dog sanctuary, Spain, 2022-07-01
Interests
- Learning about other cultures
- Socialising & meeting new people
- Reading books
- Creating art or doing anything creative
- Learning about and using new technology
- Writing/ Singing and Making Music
- Walking my dogs in nature
- Cooking food from a variety of cuisines
Timeline
Performance Elf (Seasonal)
Dobbies Garden Centres
11.2025 - 12.2025
Day/ Residential Camp Leader (Seasonal)
The Wild Outdoors
03.2024 - 08.2025
Sales Executive (B2B)
Intelling Ltd
06.2022 - 07.2023
Social media manager/ Marketing
LV Telecoms
01.2021 - 01.2022
Communication & Retail NVQ Level 3 - undefined
SWC Enniskillen
UAL Level 3 Music Production & Performance -
Edinburgh College
09/2025 -
NVQ Level 2 Music Production -
Bridgewater College
GSCE's -
St Fancheas College