We caught up with Middlesbrough College’s Head of Additional Learning Support, Leanne Elsy!
Leanne joined Middlesbrough College in December 2022 as the SEN Team Leader. In that role, she managed a team of Learning Support Assistants and supported the College’s learners with EHCPs.
She decided to apply for the role at Middlesbrough College after gaining vital experience from her previous job in administration at East Durham College. She said: “I started as an Admin Apprentice in the ALS Team and worked my way up in that department. I worked closely with the Head of ALS there. I saw what she did and the impact she had on learners, which sparked my interest in the field. The SEN Team Leader role seemed like the natural next step for my career.
“I originally trained in hairdressing and then started my apprenticeship. I didn’t think I could have this career without a degree, but I’ve had great opportunities to build experience and ended up in a career I love!”
Now, as Head of ALS herself, Leanne oversees the entire Additional Learning Support Team at Middlesbrough College. She said: “Supporting our learners to achieve is the ultimate goal and it’s incredibly rewarding when we get to do that.
“There is often a stigma around learners with EHCPs and the belief that these students are only in SEN provisions, however, we support students in the College’s mainstream provision, too.
“It’s amazing to watch our students progress to University or to the next step in their careers!”
In her spare time, Leanne loves to travel and spend days in the Lake District with her dog.
Looking for a role at the Middlesbrough College Group? Take a look at our latest job vacancies here