Sophie – Aspiring SEN Teaching Assistant | Autism Specialist | Psychology Graduate
Sophie is a dedicated and compassionate psychology graduate who is now seeking a SEN Teaching Assistant role in a primary or secondary school from September. With a strong academic background and hands-on experience supporting children with autism and additional needs, she brings a calm, empathetic, and attentive presence to every setting.
Sophie's long-term ambition is to become a paediatric clinical psychologist, and she is passionate about making a meaningful difference in young people’s lives through inclusive and individualised support.
Education & Qualifications
- MSc Applied Clinical Psychology: University of Bath
- BSc (Hons) Psychology: University of Exeter - First Class
- A Levels: EPQ (A*), Psychology (A), Sociology (A), Geography (B)
- GCSEs: 11 Graded A*-B including English, Maths, Science
Experience Summary
Sophie combines academic excellence with a breadth of voluntary and clinical roles supporting children and young people, particularly those with additional needs. Her experience spans school, hospital, and international settings, equipping her with the sensitivity, adaptability, and interpersonal skills vital for effective SEN support.
- Supported a pupil with learning difficulties in a mainstream school, developing strategies to promote literacy, communication, and confidence.
- Assisted psychologists at John Radcliffe Hospital, gaining experience with autism assessments (including ADOS), psychoeducation groups, and patient-facing resources.
- Volunteered in Uganda and Peru with children in challenging circumstances, using play and communication to foster learning and wellbeing.
- Text line volunteer with Shout, providing emotional support to young people in crisis using empathy, active listening, and structured interventions.
- Gained early exposure to educational psychology as a student volunteer and through work experience at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.
Key Strengths
- Proven ability to build trust and support children with autism and SEN
- Warm, empathetic communicator skilled in active listening and validation
- Strong research and problem-solving skills, underpinned by clinical training
- Confident working independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams
- Resilient, adaptable, and driven to make a positive impact in educational settings