Emily – Graduate Teaching Assistant | Linguistics & Phonetics Specialist | Aspiring Speech & Language Support
Emily is an academically outstanding Linguistics graduate from the University of Leeds (First-Class) and is currently completing a Master’s in Linguistics at SOAS. With a deep interest in how language develops and how communication shapes learning, she is now keen to begin her career in education as a Teaching Assistant, LSA, or Speech and Language Teaching Assistant. Emily brings a thoughtful academic perspective on communication and learning, combined with excellent interpersonal skills and a calm, approachable manner.
She is particularly motivated to support pupils with speech, language and communication needs and is excited to contribute to both primary and secondary school environments from after Easter.
Education & Qualifications
- MA Linguistics: SOAS, University of London (Due to complete April)
- BA (Hons) Linguistics and Phonetics: University of Leeds - First Class
- A Levels: History (A), Politics (A), French (B)
- GCSEs: 9 GCSEs (Grades 9–7) including French (9), Combined Sciences (8–9), English Literature (8), English Language (7), Mathematics (7)
Experience Summary
Emily is a highly academic linguistics graduate with a specialist interest in phonetics, language development, and communication. Her studies have given her a strong theoretical understanding of how language is acquired and used, while her professional and volunteer experience has strengthened her communication skills, organisation, and ability to work positively with a wide range of people. She is now eager to apply her knowledge in a school setting, particularly supporting pupils’ speech, language, communication, and literacy development.
- Developed strong expertise in phonetics, phonology, and sociolinguistics through undergraduate and postgraduate study, providing an excellent foundation for supporting speech, language and communication development in pupils.
- Completed an independently researched 11,000-word dissertation at undergraduate level, demonstrating advanced research, analytical thinking, and academic communication skills.
- Built strong interpersonal and communication skills through customer-facing roles at Ryman and John Lewis, supporting diverse individuals and resolving queries with patience and clarity.
- Demonstrated organisation, reliability, and attention to detail through responsibilities including stock management, operational systems, and customer service in busy retail environments.
- Volunteered at charity shops and academic events, supporting logistics, welcoming guests and speakers, and contributing positively to organised community initiatives.
Key Strengths
- Strong academic grounding in linguistics, phonetics, and language development
- Excellent communication skills and a clear, patient communication style
- Passion for supporting speech, language and communication development in young people
- Calm, approachable and confident working with a wide range of individuals
- Highly organised, adaptable and quick to learn new systems or environments
- Genuine enthusiasm for contributing positively to pupils’ learning and wellbeing