Paula Bower

Background

About Paula Bower

I have over 20 years of experience in primary education as both teacher and an advisory officer working for the Education Authority in the area of special educational needs. I have an extensive background in the assessment and provision of support for children experiencing learning difficulties in mainstream schools. I have also extensive experience in adult training primarily in the provision of teacher, SENCo and classroom/learning support assistant training. Training is part of my current remit as a Specialist Teacher in the area of Literacy difficulties for the Education Authority which combines direct one to one teaching of children and support for schools, teachers and parents. I am also a part-time tutor on a Masters programme for Stranmillis University College Belfast which involves both teaching on the Modules and mentoring and assessing teachers going forward for the awards of Approved Teacher Status (ATS) and Associate Member of British Dyslexia Association (AMBDA) both awarded by the British Dyslexia Association. I have active AMBDA myself and also a Masters in Teaching Children with Specific Literacy Difficulties. I enjoy working in the training and support sector, sharing and discussing research based practice but also facilitating sharing, discussion and enhancement of skills of the participants on courses. I believe strongly in collegial working and developing a strong, supportive team ethos with all those with whom I work. I also strongly believe in building caring and supportive relationships with children where they can develop their skills and abilities, become enthusiastic and confident learners, and fulfil their potential.