Rosalind

I grew up in Gosport. In 1989 I moved to Bristol to study and then work: in 2003 I changed careers and completed the PGCE in teacher training. I have since taught and supported learners in a variety of primary and secondary schools in Bristol and Gosport.

My experience and interest in SEMH, trauma and attachment led me to the support position at the GFMAT. I have seen an increase in the need for support for young people and their families with academic and mental health needs. Furthermore, my personal experience as an adopter to a young child with unidentified special needs has given me an insight into the complexities of trauma and attachment. In May 2020 I studied a TQUK home study course to learn more about mental health issues. The course contained several modules including ADHD, anxiety and depression, and Bipolar Disorder, and I completed it November 2020.

I am now pursuing a role that will challenge me further, utilising all my skills and experience supporting young people with Maths and English, alongside their pastoral, social and mental health needs. I am very organised and hardworking and have a good sense of humour; I am friendly and supportive towards pupils and parents, colleagues, and clients. I am deeply passionate about learning and working with young people to help them realise their full potential. As I am motivated by challenge, I aim to motivate children with new challenges, pushing them forward. My mantra is simply that “You Can”. I have high expectations of all pupils. I appreciate the different learning styles of children, and use a variety of teaching strategies accordingly. I endeavour to raise pupil self-esteem through positive rewards, praise and encouragement. Aware of the problems some students face inside and outside of school I am happy to sit in a quiet space and listen. Where a student is stressed or anxious, angry or upset, I use a calm voice to try and help them step out of the tension that is building. I endeavour to get to know my pupils, listening to
advice from parents and carers. In this way, I am able to pre-empt issues that might trigger upsetting or challenging behaviour, using strategies to soothe and establish consistent teaching and learning for that pupil.

On a personal level, I have two children. My youngest is my adopted son, so I am experienced in attachment trauma and adoption support. I currently work with LAC and PLAC students in a local college. Through adoption I have made many contacts, and am able to sign post support to families if asked.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family. We share a passion for Lego and board games. Together we enjoy walking our dog, tackling inflatable water parks, and competing to build hotels on the Monopoly board! For health and serenity I run regularly - I find it both peaceful and energising to plug in my headphones and run 5k several times a week.

Willing to travel: 5 miles

Experience: I am currently working as a Learning Support Assistant at a college in Gosport. I work in the SEN unit for Post-16 students, aged up to 25 years. I support - and sometimes teach - Functional Skills in Maths and English. I am looking to leave and become a full-time home tutor, providing face-to-face tutoring to young people in Gosport and the immediate area.

My experience in education is listed below.

* Primary school teacher since 2004
* Learning Support Assistant since 2018 (and prior to teaching qualification) in KS1, KS2 and KS3 in mainstream schools
* Learning Support Assistant in KS1, KS2, KS3 and Post-16 in SEN and AP units since 2018
* One to one SEMH support to students in Post-16 since 2021
* One to one support to students with epilepsy in Post-16 since 2021
* One to one support to students with ASD in Post-16 since 2021
* Invigilator for exams in Functional Skills Maths and English, and all GCSE subjects (familiar with access arrangements and extra needs) since 2017

My own subject knowledge includes:
`O` level Maths and English (language and literacy);
`A` level Maths and Business Studies;
Functional Skills Maths and English Levels 1 and 2.

I am confident in supporting learning in other GCSE subjects where planning and prep allows - I am a keen learner myself so will take on challenges with much enthusiasm! I am also happy to assist with social skills and independence, where a student would like to gain confidence for example with travel training or cookery.