Paige Fitzpatrick

As a graduate with a Master's degree in Psychology, I am passionate about understanding the complexities of human behaviour and mental health. My experience as a teaching assistant in a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school has deepened my commitment to supporting individuals with diverse learning needs, allowing me to develop valuable skills in empathy, communication, and tailored educational strategies. In addition to my academic and professional background, I actively volunteer for PAPYRUS, a charity dedicated to preventing youth suicide. This role has further fuelled my desire to advocate for mental health awareness and support vulnerable populations. I am eager to continue my journey in psychology, combining my educational experiences and volunteer work to make a meaningful impact in the field. 

In my professional experience as a teaching assistant, I have had the opportunity to work in both Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools and mainstream educational settings, providing one-to-one support to students with diverse learning requirements. In the SEN school, I collaborated closely with educators and specialists to create individualized learning plans that catered to each student's unique needs, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. My role involved implementing tailored teaching strategies, assisting with behavioral management, and promoting social skills development. In the mainstream school setting, I supported students with varying abilities, helping to bridge gaps in understanding and ensuring that all learners could engage fully with the curriculum. This dual experience has equipped me with a versatile skill set, enhancing my ability to adapt to different educational contexts and effectively support students in reaching their full potential.

My Master's degree in Applied Psychology enhances the role of a Special Educational Needs teaching assistant by providing a deep understanding of cognitive and emotional development, equipping me with the skills to identify individual learning needs, implement effective behavioural strategies, and foster a supportive learning environment tailored to each student's unique challenges. This academic background also aids in collaborating with educators and specialists to create and adapt personalized learning plans, ultimately promoting better educational outcomes for students with diverse needs.