Laura

My experience with special educational needs

I have experience of working with pupils with special educational needs in mainstream schools, specialist provision and on a 1:1 tutoring basis in both England and Wales. I have been successful in helping students develop strong literacy, numeracy, social & emotional and learning skills. I am also a qualified Learning Mentor with extensive experience in supporting learners with special educational needs, including supporting pupils with emotional regulation and mental health. I am proficient in Makaton Level 1, and equipped with comprehensive training for supporting students with Autism, ADHD, ODD, PDA, and early communication including use of AAC for pre-verbal learners. Skilled in MAPA and Team Teach techniques, with a strong understanding of Adverse Childhood Experiences, I am committed to fostering inclusive educational environments that promote student well-being and success.

A bit about me

I am a very passionate teacher with more than 11 years of experience teaching pupils with special educational needs in England and Wales. I also have a brother who is autistic who was my inspiration to first start learning about additional needs, specifically autism, so that I could help and support him the best way I could. I feel this gives me a unique perspective as I understand special educational needs both as an educator and as a family member myself. I am very happy to discuss individual needs and tailor sessions to each individual.

My teaching philosophy

I believe that no learner should be left behind and that everyone is capable of making progress. I create bespoke and individualised learning plans to ensure the best fit for each learner I work with, incorporating their personal learning styles and interests. I believe that good relationships are the basis of all learning so I always meet my learners where they are at, work on building a relationship with them and making sure they feel involved and have a say in what and how they learn. I have a calm approach and take things at the pace of the young person I am working with, incorporating sensory breaks and regulation as much as needed. I provide visual and communication support, including support for pre-verbal and non-verbal learners.

Schedule

Tutoring specialisation

I’m providing tutoring sessions for students with these educational needs: