LMP Education provides a range of apprenticeships for the education sector with an aim of making an impact in young people’s lives. One of our apprentices, Ella-Nicole Womble is Level 3 Teaching Assistant SEND Pathway apprentice at Reach Academy, a programme that aims to help close the Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) skills gap within schools. Here is her story:
“I chose this apprenticeship programme, because it is an amazing opportunity to gain knowledge and experience within an education setting. I chose the SEND pathway, as I have a passion for helping children who may need extra support and wanted to help make a real difference within their life.
I wanted to do an apprenticeship, as it allows me to gain experience within a classroom environment whilst learning and developing new skills and knowledge. I learn better through hands-on experience, so being able to implement what I’m learning on my coursework straight into the real-life situations within the classroom is beneficial.
I am proud of the relationships I have created with the pupils. I have been able to create a safe and inclusive learning environment where each student feels valued and heard. I have been able to support the students to gain independence and improve their physical, emotional, social and intellectual development. By building these relationships, I have strengthened my communication and patience skills.
As a teaching assistant, I spend the most time with the students meaning I can provide more personalised support for each child which the teachers may not have the time to. Teaching Assistants help to support a student with their communication and social interaction, as well as encouraging their independence. Teaching assistants are a constant positive role model within a student’s life, which helps with keeping routines and building trust.
I support the students academically with their work and holistically with their development. I have been able to form relationships with students and get them to do their work, where other teachers are struggling to do so.
The best thing about my role is being able to give the students a fair chance of education. Seeing the little wins, such as a student finally attempting a maths problem, or seeing a student talking to another student after not communicating with any students for weeks may seem little but is a major step for a lot of the children’s development and it is amazing to be a part of this.
I have had a lot of support from both my employer and tutor at LMP. My tutor is always checking up on me, to make sure that I am okay, and I understand the work. My employer has supported me with access to different training courses, and by giving me constant feedback on what I’m doing well and how I can improve my practice.
The most important skill I have learnt is communication. Each student in the school has different ways of communicating and different barriers. It’s important to be able to adapt my communication to meet each child’s needs.
After I complete my apprenticeship, I want to continue working within the sector as a SEND teaching assistant.”
Well done, Ella-Nicole, best of luck in the future!
Do you want to make a difference in young people’s lives? Explore our Teaching and Early Years apprenticeships!
