I am currently a full-time Year 4 class teacher, Inclusion Lead, DSL and Mental Health First Aider at Meadow Primary School and Nursery.
My journey into this role has been a fulfilling one as I started as support staff back in 2005 when our school was known as Sparrow Farm Junior School. Over the years, my passion for supporting children with additional needs grew, and when our school amalgamated with Stoneleigh First Infants to become Meadow Primary School, I had the privilege of working closely with the Headeacher, Gayle Jenkins, who was at that point the SENCo. Gayle and I collaborated on inclusion, with me providing support on administrative tasks and leading interventions. This experience motivated me to further my qualifications and I became a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). With the invaluable support and guidance of the school, I completed my SCITT training and earned my teaching credentials. I subsequently pursued the SENCo award and now hold a position on the Senior Leadership Team as Inclusion Lead, DSL and Mental Health First Aider, equipping me with the essential tools to offer the best support.
What I truly appreciate about my job as an Inclusion Lead and being part of a larger organisation, is the collaborative environment it provides. Working within BET affords me access to a vast network of educators, specialists, and resources that enhance my ability to support our pupils with diverse needs. The synergy between schools within the Trust allows us to share best practices, tap into a broader pool of expertise, and stay updated with the latest developments in inclusive education. It's immensely rewarding to witness the positive impact of this collective effort on our pupils, knowing that we are constantly striving to provide the best possible educational experience for each child. In this role, I find not only personal fulfilment but also the opportunity to contribute to a larger educational community dedicated to fostering inclusivity and pupil wellbeing.