What did you aim to achieve with this programme? How does it contribute to your goal of securing employment supporting individuals with SEND?

I aimed to develop the specialised knowledge and skills required to support learners with SEND effectively, particularly in behaviour management, adaptability, and emotional support. My goal was to become proficient in providing personalised learning and care to students with diverse needs, equipping them with the tools to feel confident, independent, and integrated within their community.

This aligns with my aspiration to work as an SEND teaching assistant, where I can provide targeted 1:1 or small group support that enhances students’ understanding and confidence. I was particularly interested in understanding the needs of individuals with profound and multiple learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and mental health conditions. These learners may require support in daily tasks, communication, and decision-making while maintaining their independence. My goal is to provide empathetic and tailored support, meeting each learner at their level and ensuring their needs are recognised and respected.

 

What skills or knowledge did you acquire during the Skills Bootcamp? How did the programme prepare you for supporting SEND individuals effectively?

During the Skills Bootcamp, I gained crucial insights into understanding specific challenges faced by individuals with autism, mental health issues, and profound learning disabilities.  I committed to the programme by dedicating specific hours to study each week and using additional resources like online articles, case studies, and group discussions. I utilised and improved my confidence in tools like Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel to organise my learning effectively. Staying engaged meant actively participating in discussions, seeking feedback, and continually reflecting on how the skills I learned could be applied in real-world settings.

One challenge I faced was adapting activities for a diverse group of learners with varying needs. I addressed this by using SMART goals to break down tasks into manageable steps and seeking guidance from my mentors. The support provided by Educate 2Gether, including constructive feedback and resources, helped me overcome these obstacles and improve my practice. The programme enhanced my ability to adjust plans and activities to meet unique learner needs, while developing strategies for managing challenging behaviours. I strengthened my understanding of safeguarding and data protection practices, enabling me to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams to create inclusive environments that promote independence in learners.

 

How did you apply the knowledge and skills from the Bootcamp in your workplace?

In my placement after the Skills Bootcamp, I applied my learning by introducing sensory-based activities for an autistic learner, tailoring the experience to suit their needs and preferences. I also used behaviour management techniques to help a student with emotional regulation, ensuring they felt supported during challenging situations. These experiences demonstrated my ability to implement effective strategies in real-world scenarios.

Have you completed the whole programme? How did this reflect on  your employability?

Completing the programme significantly enhanced my employability by equipping me with practical skills and a deeper understanding of SEND learners. Through self-reflection, I identified areas where I excelled, such as adaptability and communication, and used these strengths to align my career aspirations with my newfound expertise. I received positive feedback highlighting my ability to connect with learners, tailor activities to individual needs, and remain calm under pressure. My mentor appreciated my proactive approach and dedication, reinforcing my readiness to take on the responsibilities of an LSA.

 

How has this programme helped you grow as a practitioner/assistant and increased your employability?

The programme helped me develop key skills such as planning inclusive activities, managing challenging behaviours, and fostering trust with learners. What worked well was my ability to adapt learning materials and engage through creative activities.  The programme also enhanced my ability to collaborate with colleagues and parents, ensuring a holistic approach to supporting SEN learners. I aim to further enhance my time management and decision-making skills to improve overall effectiveness. By focusing on tailored support and fostering independence, the programme prepares me to contribute meaningfully to the development of SEND learners. It aligns with my career aspirations by reinforcing my commitment to creating inclusive learning environments and achieving measurable outcomes that benefit both learners and their communities.

 

Would you recommend the Skills Bootcamp to other learners?

Yes, I highly recommend it to others. The programme provides valuable, practical training that directly supports professional development and career readiness. The Skills Bootcamp offers a fast-tracked, focused approach to gaining essential skills for SEND roles, making it an excellent alternative to traditional qualifications.

Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks, giving people the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills and an offer of an interview with an employer upon completion.

 

For more information on Skills Bootcamps click here.