1. Mrs Harris Family Worker and Pupil Support

2. Who am I? I have been working for St Christophers Academy since 2004. I was a Teaching Assistant for many years and have supported a lot of you older ones throughout your time here. I have worked with several teachers and children. I have listened to lots of you read and helped you in many aspects of your learning.

3. How did I become a Teaching Assistant I have 2 children who are now 15 and 17 years old, when they were younger they came to this school, I used to come into school to help and listen to other children read. After this I then started to work in the school. To help me be a good Teaching Assistant; so I can support you children really well I had to have training. I have been on lots of training courses. Training courses teach you how to do your job well.

5. What do I do? For the last few years I have also had another role at St Christophers. This is the role of Family Worker and pupil support. This means I support children who may be having a difficult time. Maybe sad or upset about something. May have changes in their lives. Lots of different reasons why I support children, NOT always for sad reasons. This also means I may support your family too. I may come around your house or meet your parents in school. I may help your parents in what is happening in their lives. I have introduced other people to help families.

6. I am also the lead for Young Carers. This means I support children who may be Young Carers. Some children look after parents or brothers and sisters who are ill or have a disability. I helped the school receive an award for being a ‘Young Carers’ school. We are one of the first schools in the Country to receive this award. Our school is also going to be mentioned in a book. An author has written a book about how people help and support schools and St Christophers are mentioned because we are a Young Carers school. As the lead for Young Carers I support our amazing young carers and also support their families if they need it. I have a notice board in the corridor.

7. Don’t forget in the corridor there is also a worry box. You can write down your worry and post it. Make sure you put your name on it so I can reply.

8. You can always find me in ‘The Lounge’. This is my new home. In fact it feels like a home, we have decorated it and furnished it to feel like a home. This is also the place where Mrs Lay looks after children before and after school. In the afternoons I have groups of children who come to The Lounge. I see a fantastic group of children who come to me 3 times a week. We learn lots of fun things together. Twice a week I have another great group where we play games and also learn some great life skills together. I love working in The Lounge!

15. On a Thursday lunchtime from 12.30 I have a drop in session. This means anyone of you can come and see me in The Lounge during this time. Come and have a chat, share your news, share any worries you may have. You can come and see me for any reason. Have a look for my posters around school and in your classes.

16. This is just a few of the training courses I have been on so I can help and support you and your families. Level 3 in Child care and education Nurture Network Training Parenting Workshops Safeguard training I regularly meet with the parenting team from Central Bedfordshire Council Courses on how to help children who may need additional support in school