Tracy Mcelhinney
Ballivor,Ireland
Summary
Dedicated professional with a strong understanding of the autism spectrum and expertise in crisis intervention procedures. Committed to maintaining confidentiality while providing encouragement for additional support needs. Aims to leverage skills in a role that supports individuals with diverse needs, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Motivated Classroom Assistant adept at assessing student needs and developing individualised strategies to meet diverse needs.
Diligent student searching for rewarding teaching assistant in special educational needs position. Patient and compassionate in dealing with physically and mentally challenged individuals. Willing to pursue advance training to support school and achieve successful results.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
year of post-secondary education
Work history
Substitute Special Needs ssistant
Colaiste Clavin Longwood Co. Meaath
Longwood
2025.10 - 2026.01
- Assisted in the development of social skills, improvement noted in overall behaviour.
- Identified signs of distress in students, resolving behavioural and emotional issues.
- Supported classroom teacher in monitoring, assessing and recording students progress.
- Maintained child safety, security and good behaviour during classroom and outdoor activities.
Team Leader Afterschool
Kids Inc
Palmstertown Dublin
2025.04 - 2025.09
- Upheld policies and procedures set out by the after-school programme at all times.
- Assisted with homework tasks, leading to improved understanding of subjects.
- Kept accurate records of children's attendance, maintaining good order and discipline.
- Fostered an inclusive environment where all students felt valued and accepted.
- Supervised outdoor playtimes ensuring safety at all times.
- Prepared nutritious meals and snacks, carefully adhering to individual dietary requirements and portioning standards.
- Managed and administered medications and minor first aid treatments, prioritising child safety and wellbeing.
- Adhered to policies and procedures and legislative requirements relating to child care.
School catering assistant
David Smyth catering
Killucan, County Westmeath
2018.09 - 2023.11
- Assisted in the preparation of nutritious meals for 100+ students daily.
- Observed stringent allergen awareness practices, thus minimising risk of cross contamination.
- Followed recipes accurately whilst preparing meals to maintain consistency in taste.
- Checked quality of ingredients before use, preventing potential foodborne illnesses.
- Prepared special dietary requirement meals to accommodate diverse student needs.
- Worked under pressure during peak lunch hours to serve meals on time.
- Followed checklists to keep kitchen areas clean, stocked and sanitised.
Education
Certificate of Higher Education - Special Needs Education
Special Needs Assistant
Dublin 2008.05 - 2008.11
Diploma of Higher Education - Montessori Teaching Studies
Montessori Teaching Studies
Portobello Dublin 2002.09 - 2003.04
Introduction to children First
Tusla Children First
DublinSkills
- Autism spectrum understanding
- Understanding of confidentiality
- Crisis intervention procedures
- Additional support need encouragement
Timeline
Substitute Special Needs ssistant
Colaiste Clavin Longwood Co. Meaath
2025.10 - 2026.01
Team Leader Afterschool
Kids Inc
2025.04 - 2025.09
School catering assistant
David Smyth catering
2018.09 - 2023.11
Certificate of Higher Education - Special Needs Education
Special Needs Assistant
2008.05 - 2008.11
Diploma of Higher Education - Montessori Teaching Studies
Montessori Teaching Studies
2002.09 - 2003.04
Introduction to children First
Tusla Children First