Nicole Alysia Upton
Sale,Greater Manchester
Summary
Through postgraduate study and experience working directly with children, I have developed an understanding of developmental trajectories across cognitive, emotional, social and behavioural domains, as well as the factors that influence wellbeing and outcomes for children and young people. I am experienced in behavioural observation, data collection and recording, using evidence-informed approaches to monitor progress and identify individual strengths and needs. Skilled in building trusting relationships with children, young people and families, adapting communication to meet diverse needs and promoting inclusive, person-centred support. Able to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, contribute to collaborative decision-making and manage responsibilities in fast-paced environments while maintaining professionalism, empathy and a commitment to high-quality care.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Child Well-being & Support Assistant
Manchester Metropolitan University Placement
Helsinki, Finland
2026.05 - 2026.05
- Provided preventative mental health and wellbeing support sessions for children with additional needs.
- Collaborated with education and SEN professionals to gain insights into necessary support for SEN children.
- Fostered emotional growth through nurturing relationships with children.
- Assisted colleagues with daily tasks to foster a collaborative work environment.
Bar Manager
Stonegate Group
Sale
2023.04 - Current
- Led and supervised a team in a fast-paced environment, providing training and ongoing support.
- Developed strong communication and interpersonal skills through working with a diverse range of customers and colleagues.
- Managed challenging situations professionally, using problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
- Built positive relationships and maintained an inclusive, customer-focused environment.
- Demonstrated strong organisational, leadership and time-management skills while balancing multiple responsibilities.
Nursery Assistant
Forest House Day Nurseries
Altrincham
2022.06 - 2024.09
- Supported children aged 6 months to 5 years with varied developmental profiles.
- Adapted activities to meet individual learning needs, sensory preferences, and emotional regulation abilities.
- Encouraged social, emotional, and cognitive growth through structured play based activities.
- Provided individual support to special needs children to foster inclusivity.
- Utilised observational skills to monitor developmental progress and identify behavioural changes.
- Communicated with parents regarding behaviour, routines, and developmental concerns to build trusting relationships.
- Collaborated with nursery colleagues to facilitate daily operations.
Teaching Assistant Trainee
Stalder Academy of Dance
Sale
2019.09 - 2021.12
- Delivered activities adapted to the varying abilities of children between the ages of 8 and 12 years old, supporting engagement, motivation, and confidence.
- Supported classroom teacher with behaviour management, promoting a positive learning environment.
- Offered one-on-one guidance to struggling students for improved academic performance.
- Improved student engagement by utilising interactive learning techniques.
- Managed parent queries professionally, strengthening sensitive communication especially throughout COVID-19.
Education
MSc - Childhood Development and Wellbeing in Practice
Manchester Metropolitan University
2025.09 -
BSc - Psychology
University of Sheffield
2021.09 - 2024.06
A Level -
Loreto Sixth Form
Altrincham 2019.09 - 2021.06
GCSE -
Loreto Grammar School
Altrincham 2014.09 - 2019.06
Skills
- Understanding of neurodevelopmental conditions (autism, ADHD) and the lived experiences of families
- Knowledge of child development across cognitive, emotional, and social domains
- High-level written and verbal communication, including sensitive conversations with parents and children
- Ability to devise observational measures and record behavioural/emotional information accurately
- Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary teams (teachers, SEN colleagues, supervisors)
- Ability to accept and use supervision constructively
- Strong organizational skills for managing caseload-style duties in busy settings
- Empathy, patience, and confidence building rapport with children and young people
References
Reference available upon request.
Timeline
Child Well-being & Support Assistant
Manchester Metropolitan University Placement
2026.05 - 2026.05
MSc - Childhood Development and Wellbeing in Practice
Manchester Metropolitan University
2025.09 -
Bar Manager
Stonegate Group
2023.04 - Current
Nursery Assistant
Forest House Day Nurseries
2022.06 - 2024.09
BSc - Psychology
University of Sheffield
2021.09 - 2024.06
A Level -
Loreto Sixth Form
2019.09 - 2021.06
Teaching Assistant Trainee
Stalder Academy of Dance
2019.09 - 2021.12
GCSE -
Loreto Grammar School
2014.09 - 2019.06