A HEALTH and social care student from Stratford College has impressed teachers during a recent placement working at a SEND school, supporting children with additional needs.
Keavy Mclean, aged 18 from Shirley, is in the second year of her Level 3 extended diploma in health and social care and began a placement with Hazel Oak School to prepare her for working with children as a career.
Keavy said: “I really liked the sound of the course. It is more coursework based which matches my learning style and also, they have a strong placement element which is more hands on and allows greater insight into the type of work I want to do.”
Keavy began her placement in October and has already completed the number of hours required.
However, she likes the work so much she is continuing working a day a week until the end of her course.
“It has been an amazing learning experience. I have worked with children with a range of additional needs like autism and down syndrome and have developed skills to communicate better with the students. I have even learnt some Makaton!”
Lucy Obyrne, a teacher at the school said: “It has been a delight to have Keavy as a student in our class and she has been an incredible support to both our children and staff whilst working with us.
“Keavy worked in a mixed class, aged between 7-11 where the children have a range of moderate to severe learning disabilities.
“She has observed a range of different learning approaches and taken on board and modelled excellent SEND teaching practice. Keavy has grown in confidence and is a real team player. She has been a true asset to our class and the children enjoy and value ‘Miss Mclean’s Thursday’.”
Ellie Davis, health and social care lecturer is extremely proud of Keavy, she said: “Keavy is one of the hardest working and dedicated students I have ever had! Keavy will make an excellent paediatric nurse and will be a credit to any university she goes too.”
