What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
In school I studied English, Irish, Maths, History, and French. As I came to this line of work late in life experience and courses I have done since leaving school have been helpful to me.
I did the foundation in counseling skills course in Maynooth College, I feel this has helped me in my work as it developed my listening skills.
Also here I had my first introduction to non verbal communication and reading body language etc., which is very useful in my current job as I work with people who communicate largely by non verbal means.
If I could go back in time I would have worked harder in school and achieved a better leaving certificate, as I spent many years doing a job I was not suited to.
What is your education to date?
Leaving Cert.
Foundation skills in counselling
Training through work in manual handling, challenging behaviour, safe administration of medication, fire safety and food safety.
I am currently studying for a B.A. in Social Studies (Disability) with the Open Training College which is run by my organisation.
What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?
I have found all of my studies so far useful and the work I have done for my BA in Social Studies. The training I have received through work has also been very useful.
Have you undertaken, or do you plan to undertake any further training as part of your job?
I am currently studying for a BA in Social Studies (Disability). My organisation offers on the job training to the staff on an ongoing basis. This enables staff to update and expand their skills.
