AJ – Graduate Teaching Assistant | Youth Mentor & Mental Health Advocate | University of Warwick
AJ is a compassionate and dedicated Health & Medical Sciences graduate with a strong passion for supporting young people’s wellbeing, development and educational success. Through his experience as an SEN Teaching Assistant, youth mentor and YoungMinds activist, he has developed an excellent understanding of how to support children with additional needs while creating safe, inclusive and supportive environments where pupils can thrive.
With a particular interest in mental health, pastoral support and SEN provision, AJ is passionate about helping young people build confidence, overcome barriers to learning and achieve their full potential both academically and personally.
Education & Qualifications
- BSc Health & Medical Sciences, Upper Second Class Honours: University of Warwick
- A Levels: Sociology (A), Psychology (C), BTEC Subsidiary Diploma Applied Science (D*): Loreto Sixth Form College
- GCSEs: 8 GCSEs A*–C including English and Mathematics: Wright Robinson College
Experience Summary
AJ has developed valuable experience supporting children and young people across education, youth work and mental health settings. His combination of SEN experience, youth mentoring and mental health advocacy has equipped him with the skills to build positive relationships, support emotional wellbeing and help pupils engage successfully with learning.
- Worked as an SEN Teaching Assistant providing dedicated one-to-one support for a pupil with autism
- Adapted classroom activities and learning materials to meet individual learning needs
- Supported behaviour management, emotional regulation and pupil engagement within the classroom
- Worked collaboratively with teachers and support staff to monitor progress and implement targeted support strategies
- Currently volunteers as a Youth Assistant, supporting young people aged 11–14 through mentoring, discussions and pastoral guidance
- Builds trusted relationships with young people, promoting confidence, participation and personal development
- Active YoungMinds Volunteer Activist, advocating for improved mental health support for children and young people
- Worked alongside organisations including the NHS and engaged directly with policymakers through youth mental health campaigns
- Developed strong communication, organisation and relationship-building skills through his professional role as an Associate Consultant
Key Strengths
- Passionate about supporting young people's wellbeing and development
- SEN and autism support experience
- One-to-one and small-group support
- Youth mentoring and pastoral care
- Mental health awareness and advocacy
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Behaviour management and emotional regulation support
- Safeguarding awareness
- Patient, empathetic and supportive approach
- Adaptable and resilient
- Excellent organisational and teamwork skills
- Committed to helping every child reach their full potential