Natalie Smith
Manchester,United Kingdom
Summary
A highly skilled professional with a strong ability to remain calm under pressure and excel in problem-solving. Demonstrates exceptional communication skills and resourcefulness, with a comprehensive knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Committed to leveraging these skills to contribute effectively in dynamic environments while pursuing opportunities for professional growth.
Takes on challenging new role harnessing interpersonal skills, collaboration and problem-solving. Driven to deliver high-quality service and consistent results.
Organised and dependable with 22 years of experience. Successful at managing multiple priorities with positive attitude. Willing to take on greater responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education
Work history
HLTA
Manchester City Council
Didsbury, Manchester
04.2023 - Current
- Executed daily duties with precision, ensuring timely completion of all tasks.
- Developed new skills to enhance productivity and efficiency in classroom activities.
- Created engaging learning activities to boost student participation.
- Maintained an inclusive environment by adapting teaching methods for diverse needs.
- Facilitated student participation in group activities to foster social skills development.
- Communicated regularly with parents regarding student progress and updates.
- Supervised pupils during lunchtimes and educational visits, ensuring safety at all times.
- Supported teachers in managing challenging behaviours, providing actionable feedback during progress meetings.
Higher level teaching assistant
Bolton Council
Bolton, Greater Manchester
09.2015 - 04.2023
- Managed classroom behaviour to establish a calm learning atmosphere.
- Facilitated art therapy sessions to promote emotional expression.
- Created sensory activities to enhance learning for students with special needs.
- Developed individual learning plans, improving academic performance across diverse abilities.
- Liaised with parents to strengthen home-school relationships and support student needs.
- Administered medication under supervision, ensuring student health and safety.
- Utilised assistive technology to aid communication for hearing-impaired students.
- Supported teachers in modifying lessons and managing challenging behaviours.
Teaching assistant in special educational needs
Salford City Council
Salford, Manchester
09.2005 - 07.2015
- Participated in professional development training sessions to enhance knowledge of special education strategies.
- Adapted teaching methods to suit individual learning styles, improving comprehension.
- Collaborated with special education teachers to optimise lesson planning and execution.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary team members for holistic child development.
- Provided emotional support while respecting students' personal space and emotions.
- Utilised assistive technology tools to facilitate communication for non-verbal students.
- Created a positive learning environment fostering empathy and respect among peers.
- Maintained accurate records of each pupil's progress, attendance, and behaviour patterns.
Education
NVQ Level 3 - Childcare and Education
Eccles College
Manchester 09.2002 - 06.2004
GCSEs -
Wentworth High School
Manchester 09.1997 - 07.2002
Skills
- Calm under pressure
- Problem-solving
- Communication skills
- Resourcefulness
- Knowledge of SEND
Accomplishments
Pearsons Bronze winner of the national Teaching assistant of the year 2025
Timeline
HLTA
Manchester City Council
04.2023 - Current
Higher level teaching assistant
Bolton Council
09.2015 - 04.2023
Teaching assistant in special educational needs
Salford City Council
09.2005 - 07.2015
NVQ Level 3 - Childcare and Education
Eccles College
09.2002 - 06.2004
GCSEs -
Wentworth High School
09.1997 - 07.2002