Meet Helen, who changed her career…
My name is Helen, I have been employed as a Teaching Assistant at Amersham School for six months. I support teachers within the classroom and help children with their educational and social development, particularly those with SEN.
I began my career in the fashion industry…
I have a degree in Textile Management from Leeds University. I started as a Buyers Assistant for a large fashion chain and very quickly worked my way up to Senior Fashion Buyer, managing a vast team on the fashion floor. After having my two sons, I worked part-time as a buyer and manager within the wedding dress industry, and then I had my own interiors business.
My eldest son has a range of disabilities…
I spent many years researching and understanding his special educational needs, proactively gaining an EHC plan for him to ensure he received the educational support that he was entitled to. My son is now finishing his year 13 at Amersham School and is going on to University in September to study 3D Animation.
I have always been a strong advocate for Amersham School …
I have seen first-hand the difference the school makes to children in their care. When the opportunity came up to work as a member of Team Amersham, I didn’t hesitate to apply — I wanted to give back to the school what they had nurtured in my son.
I am directly responsible for the care, support and development of three children with an EHCP…
In addition, there are other children within the same year group who are on an SEN plan or perhaps in need of daily emotional support. Within lessons, it is a good opportunity to spot any missed SEN children from primary school, especially in year 7. With my Arts background, I have sometimes been asked to cover a lesson and I have also invigilated public examinations.
No two days are the same…
I love this about my role within the school. Yes, the timetable for the kids in your care may be the same but what is achieved each day is always different. The day starts with the morning staff briefing, then I organise the hearing equipment for the two children in my care, making sure their hearing aids are all cleaned and working.
I provide support to two children with physical disabilities, helping them get to and from class. I am also within the classroom to aid the teacher and to aid the smooth running of the entire lesson, looking out for different children’s needs. At the end of the day, I complete a daily log for each of the children within my care on an EHCP and discuss with my colleagues any issues that may have arisen during the day.
The most rewarding part of the role…
…is witnessing first-hand development in the children that you look after. It can sometimes be only a small difference, but you know that you have played a significant part.
If you are thinking of joining Amersham school…
Go for it! You won’t look back. I had a completely different career. I always wondered about working in a secondary school but kept on putting it off. I wish now that I took the leap earlier.
The staff at the school are phenomenal and the welcome you will receive when you join is second to none. The camaraderie between the staff brightens a difficult day and the support you receive from your immediate boss makes it all worthwhile.
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