Barbara Lally

Classroom Assistant, Glenveagh School Belfast

They gave me confidence to think about other types of learning

I’ve worked in the school for over 16 years and have completed work related training that’s provided by the Education Board and the school. When I was a rep for UNISON I completed a range of training including health & safety and there was a wide range available if you were interested. They gave me confidence to think about other types of learning.

Due to the particular needs of the children that I work with I embarked in a Diploma in Autistic Spectrum Disorder on a distant learning web-based medium with the University of Birmingham. The Board supported me through financing my learning but I found it a constant struggle to find the time to study and the opportunity to implement my learning exercises. However, I feel much more confident in my existing practice and have increased my participation as a proactive team member with staff and on occasion, giving advice to the school Board. I completed the Diploma and enjoyed the flexible approach to learning that the course offered. I am restricted due to my chosen field of study but am hoping to progress onto modularised learning within the higher education level.