THIS Psychology graduate from Liverpool Hope University is helping to make a difference to the lives of adolescent school students.
And she says her ability to understand the fundamentals of ‘human nature’ - partly thanks to her time at Hope - has helped her to thrive in an educational setting.
Jessica studied for both an undergraduate programme in Psychology at Hope as well as a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology.
The 29 year old is now working as a teaching assistant at a Secondary school in Liverpool supporting a wide range of youngsters, including those with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) requirements.
While the role can be challenging, it’s also extremely rewarding.
Jessica, from Speke, south Liverpool, explains: “Up until 2020, I had never worked in the education sector full time.
“But I now work largely with pupils who are accessing on-site alternative provision, delivering bespoke SEMH intervention for those at risk of permanent exclusion.
“I am also involved with the SEND pupil premium and 'double-disadvantaged' cohorts. More specifically, I work with KS4 pupils who have access arrangement entitlements.
“And I feel that my education has increased my aptitude for, and ability to understand, human behaviour.
“Working with 11 to 16-year olds can be challenging. Adolescence is a huge developmental transition. But the knowledge and skills I gained as a student have better prepared me to support developing children and young people.
“And on the flip side, seeing the growth of the young people I support is by far the most rewarding aspect of the role.”
Professionally, Jessica plans to stay in an educational setting and is looking to pursue a career as a Learning Technologist - someone who finds ways to support the learning experience for both students and teachers through the innovative use of technology.
She adds: “In my current role, I am already working on projects which integrate technology into the classroom. I would really like to take this further and make it my sole focus.
“I am exploring a PhD offered by Lancaster University (E-research and Technology Enhanced Learning). The course is distance learning and will allow me to continue to work at a school.
“At present, I am focusing on promoting inclusion and accessibility via technology and also virtual learning experiences, both on and off-site.”
Jessica came to Hope via an Access to Higher Education course at The City of Liverpool College and, as such, was awarded a bursary - a financial boost she appreciated while also working part time.
And looking back on her time at Hope, she adds: “I loved it.
“Don't get me wrong there were a few tears and tantrums along the way, but overall I really enjoyed it. Hope is a place where you can grow both academically and personally. I am most thankful for the latter.
“And the level of pastoral support offered by the Psychology Department at Hope really is second to none.”