Alison S

Hi, I'm Alison. I have worked in education for the past 18 years as both a Learning Support Assistant (LSA) and a cover teacher. Teaching is something I genuinely love, and I take great pleasure in helping children build confidence and flourish. For me, every small step forward is a success worth celebrating. I believe that every child learns differently, and it is important to support them in a way that suits their individual needs.

I have completed training in dyslexia support and have experience carrying out dyslexia screening and visual stress assessments. I am also currently studying a course in trauma therapy, which is further developing my understanding of how adverse experiences can affect children's learning, behaviour and emotional wellbeing, and how best to support them in a compassionate and effective way.

I have experience delivering Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) interventions, supporting children with communication, language and social interaction needs. I have also delivered processing interventions to help children develop their auditory processing, working memory, attention and understanding, enabling them to access learning more successfully and build confidence in any educational setting.

Over the last eight months, I have been working closely with a non-verbal 12-year-old, supporting communication, independence and daily learning. I have also worked with teenagers, helping them develop life skills, explore future pathways and consider suitable college courses.I have extensive experience supporting children with ADHD, PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) and other additional needs, often delivering the full primary curriculum in ways that engage and motivate them. This has included creative projects such as animation, as well as practical, hands-on learning opportunities tailored to individual interests and strengths.

One of my key strengths is working with children who may present with challenging or complex behaviours. I firmly believe that positive relationships are at the heart of successful learning, and I always take the time to build trust, understand each child as an individual and create an environment where they feel safe, valued and able to succeed. Building strong relationships is always my priority, as I believe children learn best when they feel understood, respected and valued.

I particularly enjoy taking a creative approach to learning. One of my favourite projects has been planning and delivering engaging activities for children who remain in school while their peers are away on residential trips. These experiences have involved plenty of hands-on learning, creativity and fun. I have also developed a cooking curriculum designed to encourage children to explore new ideas and skills, working closely with a local award-winning chef.

Alongside academic learning, I enjoy teaching practical life skills and creative subjects. I regularly incorporate cookery, woodwork, sewing, craft projects and animation into my work, helping children develop confidence, independence, problem-solving skills and a sense of achievement through creating something tangible.

Outside of work, I am a mum to five children and a lively Labradoodle! In my spare time, I enjoy sewing, knitting and crochet. I also love walking my dog in the forest and along the beach. Cooking is another passion of mine, and I am always keen to experiment with new recipes and flavours.

My approach is simple: put relationships first, build confidence, and help every child discover that they can succeed.