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Kelly joined Allerthorpe School with a clear goal: to deepen her experience working with learners with more complex special educational needs. Since joining, she has been able to do exactly that, developing both professionally and personally in a supportive environment.

She is currently working towards her Level 3 SEN Teaching Assistant qualification, fully supported and funded by the school, and has taken on the additional role of Wellbeing Champion. This reflects Allerthorpe and Melrose Education’s commitment to investing in its staff as well as its learners.

For Kelly, one of the most rewarding aspects of her role is the variety each day brings. “Every day is different and challenging,” she explains, “but seeing learners enjoy their learning, progress, and grow is incredibly fulfilling.”

She credits the strong team around her as a key part of her experience: “The support from colleagues makes a real difference, it’s what helps you keep growing and doing your best for the learners.”

Kelly’s journey highlights how Allerthorpe School actively supports staff development while creating meaningful impact for learners every day.

Laura joined Allerthorpe School to expand her experience in special educational needs, having previously supported learning but wanting to deepen her understanding of SEN.

Since starting, she has nearly completed her Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning qualification, supported and funded by the school, and is preparing to begin her Level 3 Mental Health First Aid training, another opportunity provided through Allerthorpe and Melrose Education’s commitment to staff development. Alongside this, she has developed a strong knowledge base across areas such as ADHD, ASC, SEMH, and PDA.

Laura describes the environment as both inspiring and supportive: “Every day is different, and seeing the learners develop and become a better version of themselves is amazing.”

One of her most memorable experiences has been working closely with a 1:1 learner and witnessing their personal growth. “Watching that development within themselves has been really special.”

She has already recommended Allerthorpe School to others, describing it simply as “a great place to work”, which is a reflection of both the team culture and the impact of the work.

With years of experience behind him, Rick joined Allerthorpe School looking for a role where he could deliver bespoke, meaningful learning for learners with SEN, and continue developing his own practice.

Since joining, he has trained as a Drawing and Talking Practitioner, with this training supported and funded by the school, and continues to build his expertise through further advanced training opportunities.

Rick values the small class sizes and strong relationships that can be built as a result. “You really get to know each learner as an individual,” he explains. “It allows you to make a genuine difference.”

One standout moment for him was completing his first Drawing and Talking programme with learners: “Seeing their confidence and happiness grow was incredibly special.”

He describes the school as “like a family,” with approachable leadership and a strong focus on staff wellbeing, making it a place where both learners and staff can thrive.

Tim brought a wealth of experience in outdoor learning, Forest School, and SEN when he joined Allerthorpe School, seeking an opportunity to apply his skills within a secondary setting.

Since then, he has made a significant impact, developing a whole-school Forest School curriculum from the ground up and taking on a Sustainability Lead role. He has also been supported by the school and Melrose Education, to further develop his leadership skills, alongside mentoring early career teachers and supporting new learners as they transition into the school environment.

Tim is passionate about the school’s approach to learning: “Together, we create a community where learners’ interests shape their learning journeys. It’s about overcoming barriers and creating positive change.”

One memorable experience involved a whole-school outdoor learning day, where learners made elderberry cordial, built fires, and cooked together, bringing learning to life in a meaningful, engaging way.

For Tim, Allerthorpe offers “excellent facilities, strong community links, and opportunities for interest-led learning every week,” making it an exciting and rewarding place to work.

Amy joined Allerthorpe School after being inspired by its ethos and vision while working with primary-aged learners with SEN. She was keen to broaden her experience and continue developing her skills.

Since joining, she has been given the opportunity to undertake Level 3 Mental Health First Aid training, fully supported and funded by the school, enabling her to better support learners’ emotional wellbeing.

Amy describes the relationships within the school as truly unique: “The connection between staff and learners is incomparable. It’s what makes this place so special.”

Her first day remains a standout memory: “The support and guidance from senior staff and the team were incredible. I left feeling inspired and ready to make a difference.”

For Amy, the school environment, Melrose Education staff benefits, and the positive impact of the learners make Allerthorpe School “a great place to be”, where even challenging days are lifted by the relationships built.