Amy Macdonald

I am an innovative and results driven teacher and team-leader. I truly have a passion for helping people and working with children and young people. I believe my caring and compassionate nature, as well as my ability to learn new skills quickly make me an asset to any organisation or role involving the care and progression of individuals.

I am continuously growing in my learning and training, originating with my honours degree in Youth and family studies, public policy, to my special needs training and my other managerial roles in the hospitality industry, which has had a hugely positive effect on my people skills and organisational skills.

I am eager to make an impact and learn as much as I can in the areas i am passionate about.

My working life has always been focused around people.

In my experience, patience, empathy and listening are the most important skills for youth workers. I've learned that teenagers do things on their own schedule, and I can best help them by actively listening and empathizing with them.

I have been involved in projects with young people, and helping them to gain confidence and trust in themselves, also helping to empower young people and to equip them with the skills and knowledge, leading to increased wellbeing and resilience.

From studying and practicing as an SNE I worked with young children mainly with difficulty communicating and needing assistance in some everyday tasks. My experience helped me identify individual needs and be able to create a safe and stimulating environment in which the children can learn.

I have grown in every position I have worked in in relation to the service industry. I feel the skills gained by being in a managerial role are transferable to many sectors. I had to possess strong leadership and communication skills, demonstrates attention to detail, and I feel being a team player and approcable creates a great working environment in order for everyone to florish and succeed  and feel comfortable discussing any problems that may arise.

• Bachelor of Arts (Child, Youth and Family Studies Public Policy and Practice) - Honours Degree
• Special Needs Assistant
• TEFL Award - Diploma of higher education in Teaching English as a foreign language