Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Voluntary Experience
Entrepreneurial Experience
Projects
Certification
Websites
Timeline
Generic

Laura Kavanagh

Dublin

Summary

Dedicated community advocate seeking a role in community development or human services. Passionate about supporting individuals and promoting social justice, with a strong focus on empowering marginalised communities. Experienced in providing one-on-one support, facilitating programs, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. Skilled in project management, communication, and interpersonal skills. Demonstrates a commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Eager to leverage my skills and experience to contribute to the growth and development of local communities.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Special Needs Assistant

Scoil Nano Nagle
Clondalkin
03.2018 - 05.2020
  • Provided one-on-one support to students with a range of special needs, including autism, intellectual disabilities, and sensory processing disorders
  • Developed and implemented individualised education plans (IEPs) to address specific learning needs and goals
  • Facilitated small group instruction and adapted teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of students
  • Utilised a variety of teaching techniques, including visual aids, hands-on activities, and behaviour management strategies
  • Collaborated with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Special Needs Assistant

St Ultan's
Cherry Orchard
09.2017 - 05.2020
  • Provided one-on-one support to students with special needs
  • Facilitated small group instruction to enhance student learning and social skills
  • Utilised specialised teaching strategies to address sensory, motor, language, cognitive, and memory development
  • Collaborated with classroom teachers to coordinate instructional efforts and ensure a consistent approach to student support
  • Successfully managed challenging behaviours and implemented positive reinforcement techniques.

Receptionist

National Basketball Arena
07.2004 - 08.2005
  • Managed reception duties, including scheduling appointments and assisting customers
  • Handled database management, filing, postal duties, and other general office tasks.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Social Justice and Sociology -

University College Dublin (UCD), Bellfield Campus
09.2024

Level 5 Certificate in Healthcare Support -

Ballyfermot College of Further Education
11.2019

INC Levels 5 and 6 Special Needs Assisting (SNA) -

Ballyfermot College of Further Education
11.2019

Skills

Skills

Project Management

  • Project planning and organisation
  • Time management and meeting deadlines
  • Resource allocation and budgeting
  • Collaboration with stakeholders

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Active listening and problem-solving skills
  • Building rapport and fostering positive relationships
  • Providing clear and concise instructions
  • Conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques

Organisation and Time Management

  • Prioritisation and task management
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Meeting deadlines and maintaining a high level of organisation
  • Adapting to changing priorities and managing multiple tasks effectively

Creativity and Innovation

  • Developing engaging and age-appropriate learning materials
  • Problem-solving and finding creative solutions
  • Thinking outside the box and developing innovative approaches
  • Adapting activities and strategies to meet individual needs

Entrepreneurial Skills

  • Business planning and management
  • Marketing and sales
  • Customer service
  • Product development and design
  • Inventory management and logistics

Voluntary Experience

Secretary, Nano Nagle Parents Association, Clondalkin, 09/2015-05/2017, 

  • Organised and attended meetings, taking minutes, and distributing notes.
  • Responded to inquiries from internal and external parties to facilitate communication. Organised and ran various school events and fundraisers, including School Book fairs, Christmas fairs, Santa visits, Easter egg hunts, and sports days.
  • Coordinated assigned projects and program components, ensuring timely completion and delivery of scheduled services.
  • Created and maintained accurate manual and electronic document files and records.
  • Managed the budget and purchased necessary equipment for events.

Entrepreneurial Experience

Craft Business Owner, Self-Employed, 2016-2021, 

  • Operated a thriving home-based craft business offering a diverse range of products, including custom-made glitter glasses and bottles, bespoke box frames, and handmade cards.
  • Specialised in creating personalised items to match special occasions such as debuts and weddings, tailoring designs to specific colour palettes and preferences.
  • Maintained a strong online presence with a dedicated following of over 1000 customers.
  • Design, production, and customisation of a variety of craft items.
  • Sourcing and procurement of materials, including custom-blended glitters and unique embellishments.
  • Inventory management, packaging, and shipping of products to both domestic and international customers.
  • Customer service and communication, including addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and building lasting relationships.
  • Financial management, including budgeting, pricing, and invoicing.
  • Marketing and promotion of the business through social media and other channels.

Projects

Comprehensive Guide for Parents (In Progress)

  • University College Dublin
  • Developing a comprehensive guide to support parents from disadvantaged backgrounds in navigating the complexities of higher education, including the CAO application process, childcare, financial planning, and balancing parenting responsibilities.
  • Collaborating with university faculty and staff to ensure the guide aligns with the institution's goals and values.
  • Contributing to a university-wide diversity initiative focused on supporting underrepresented students.
  • Note:The project was initially conceived as a class assignment but has gained significant traction and is being considered for inclusion in UCD's diversity program.

Certification

  • First Aid Certified
  • Restorative Practices
  • Patient Handling and Lifting

Timeline

Special Needs Assistant

Scoil Nano Nagle
03.2018 - 05.2020

Special Needs Assistant

St Ultan's
09.2017 - 05.2020

Receptionist

National Basketball Arena
07.2004 - 08.2005

Bachelor of Science in Social Justice and Sociology -

University College Dublin (UCD), Bellfield Campus

Level 5 Certificate in Healthcare Support -

Ballyfermot College of Further Education

INC Levels 5 and 6 Special Needs Assisting (SNA) -

Ballyfermot College of Further Education
Laura Kavanagh