A gateway back into work

"In March 2020, I studied a course in special educational needs and disability and went on to complete the CERTA special educational needs and disabilities course later on in the year. Firstly, I would like to say how helpful and friendly my tutor Gale was. Any question or worry I had throughout the course was answered and there was always help and support on hand. The way that she adapted with the course and as a tutor through the changes with the COVID-19 pandemic was commendable.

The course for me was something I chose to do as a gateway back into the working world, after 12 years of being a stay at home mum. It not only refreshed my knowledge about working with children, but taught me new things, techniques, policies and information about working in amongst a school environment. It helped me gain confidence in my abilities and through this experience I felt I could then apply for the role I had been wanting (Teaching Assistant).

I used the information I had learned when in my interview to answer questions, and I’m happy to say I have gained a role working in a school because of this. The strategies I have learned through the course have come in handy every single day, as I work with children with a range of different needs. I am grateful to Gale and for the course in helping through my journey back into work."