Nicole Savage
Finaghy,Antrim
Summary
Psychology graduate with an MSc in Clinical Health Psychology (Pass with Commendation), with hands-on experience supporting children and young people with diverse needs across educational, voluntary, and research settings. Bringing a compassionate, reflective approach, strong safeguarding awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively to support emotional wellbeing, development, and positive outcomes. My work has strengthened my interest in clinical and educational psychology and shaped a calm, empathetic approach to supporting wellbeing, development, and inclusion.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work history
SEN Classroom Assistant
Methodist College Belfast
Belfast, Antrim
2024.08 - Current
- Assisted in implementing structured individualised and small group support plans for students with special educational and emotional needs.
- Supported students during classroom activities to promote social integration and communication skills.
- Monitored student behaviour and provided guidance to ensure a positive learning atmosphere.
- Contributed to extracurricular activities, directing the senior school musical, enriching student life outside academics.
- Organised resources and materials to facilitate smooth daily operations within the classroom.
- Communicated effectively with parents and guardians to provide updates on student progress.
Childline Volunteer Counsellor
NSPCC
Belfast, Antrim
2025.10 - Current
- Provided empathetic and confidential emotional support to children and young people through phone and online chat.
- Engage and listen carefully to understand each young person's concerns, assess risk where needed, and follow safeguarding procedures to ensure appropriate support.
- Keep clear and accurate records, maintain confidentiality and boundaries whilst working under supervision as part of a supportive team.
- Engage in ongoing training to enhance skills in mental health awareness and counselling methodologies.
Marketing Assistant
Clearlift Material Handling Limited
Portadown, Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon
2022.05 - 2024.08
- Supported development and execution of marketing campaigns to enhance brand awareness.
- Coordinated social media content and engagement strategies to foster audience interaction.
- Assisted in conducting market research to identify trends and consumer preferences.
- Contributed to creation of promotional materials to effectively communicate product offerings.
- Managed email marketing initiatives to maintain engagement with existing and potential customers.
Tutor
Aspire Aim Achieve
Belfast, Antrim
2020.01 - 2024.05
- Supported children aged 6–16, including children with special educational needs or physical disabilities.
- Delivered individualised, one-to-one support tailored to cognitive, emotional, and developmental needs, helping to build confidence and engagement with learning.
- Worked within the Foster Achievements programme, supporting children in the foster care system across Northern Ireland, working closely with carers and maintaining strong safeguarding and professional boundaries.
- Evaluated student progress through assessments and provided constructive feedback for improvement.
- Collaborated with parents and teachers to address individual learning needs and goals.
Research Assistant
Action Cancer
Belfast, Antrim
2023.01 - 2023.04
- Placement project analysing the Get Fit, Get Healthy programme.
- Conducted participant interviews, supported the collection of quantitative and qualitative data, and contributed to data analysis to evaluate programme outcomes.
- Developed my skills in research methods, ethical data handling, and interpreting findings to inform service improvement.
Research Assistant
Praxis Care
Belfast, Antrim
2021.09 - 2022.01
- Placement project involving a literature review exploring best-practice models of care for medium to long-term residential services for children with intellectual disabilities.
- Critically evaluated evidence-based approaches, ethical considerations, and service models
- Strengthened my understanding of clinical standards, care planning and outcomes for vulnerable children.
Education
Master of Science - Clinical Health Psychology
Queen's University Belfast
Belfast 09/2022 - 12/2024
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Queen's University Belfast
Belfast 09/2019 - 07/2022
Skills
- Safeguarding & Child Protection
- Empathy & Compassionate Communication
- Working with Children with SEN & Disabilities
- Emotional & Behavioural Observation
- Accurate Record-Keeping & Documentation
- Teamwork & Multidisciplinary Working
- Reliability & Professionalism
- Adaptability & Flexibility
- SPSS proficiency
Affiliations
- Performing in and directing musicals
- Keen piano and guitar player
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Childline Volunteer Counsellor
NSPCC
2025.10 - Current
SEN Classroom Assistant
Methodist College Belfast
2024.08 - Current
Research Assistant
Action Cancer
2023.01 - 2023.04
Marketing Assistant
Clearlift Material Handling Limited
2022.05 - 2024.08
Research Assistant
Praxis Care
2021.09 - 2022.01
Tutor
Aspire Aim Achieve
2020.01 - 2024.05
Master of Science - Clinical Health Psychology
Queen's University Belfast
09/2022 - 12/2024
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Queen's University Belfast
09/2019 - 07/2022