My journey in education began long before I set foot in a university. From the age of 16, I spent my summer holidays working in an international kindergarten in the Middle East. This formative experience ignited my passion for child psychology and education. After finishing my GCSEs, I took a gap year to work abroad with children, immersing myself in their worlds and learning from them. During this time, I devoured books by Oliver Sacks, further deepening my fascination with the complexities of child development.
This passion led me to pursue a BSc in Psychology at Leicester University, where I delved into the intricacies of child psychology and development. To support myself financially, I took on private tutoring jobs, helping GCSE and A-level students revise for their Biology exams. This experience not only honed my teaching skills but also reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education.
After completing my degree, I pursued a PGCE in Primary Education at the University of East Anglia in 2003. Following the arrival of my own little one, I embraced the joys of motherhood in the vibrant city of Cambridge. Here, I discovered a profound connection with the unique needs of children, which led me to serve as a Specialist Teaching Assistant for children with Down’s Syndrome for four years. This role enriched my understanding of personalised support and compassionate care.
I then transitioned to full-time teaching for the next ten years. From guiding young minds through Art and Design & Technology to nurturing early learners in Reception classrooms, I found immense fulfilment in helping children discover their potential.
In 2018, I embarked on a new adventure by founding my own childminding business, embracing the ethos of outdoor, nature-led learning and holistic childcare. I created an environment where children could thrive and explore the world around them.
A pivotal moment came in 2021 when I moved to the beautiful south coast. I spent a few months as a supply teacher across Bournemouth and Poole before becoming a class teacher in Year 2, further honing my skills and deepening my understanding of primary education.
In 2024, I took a leap of faith and launched my own alternative provision business, Calm Learning. This venture reflects my commitment to providing tailored support in literacy and numeracy skills for children with EHCPS and barriers to learning. I am passionate about discovering what ignites each child’s interests and harnessing these passions to support their learning journey.
In my role at Calm Learning, I focus on providing specialist teaching in literacy and numeracy skills for children with EHCPS and barriers to learning. I am dedicated to understanding each child’s unique strengths and interests, harnessing their passions to create engaging and effective learning experiences. By tailoring my approach to meet their individual needs, I aim to empower my students and help them thrive academically and personally.
I am deeply grateful for the privilege of making a positive impact on the lives of these young learners, empowering them to embrace their unique strengths and passions. Join me on this remarkable journey of learning, discovery, and endless possibilities!
