Pat – Playgroup Deputy Manager & Special Education Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO)
Pat has worked for the Playgroup since 1990 and has been the deputy manager since 2006. Pat is a fully qualified SENCO and has completed a Level 4 - Diploma in Early Years Care and Education and a Child Psychology Diploma. As well as her work in the playgroup Pat is a Leading Foundation Stage Practitioner visiting and supporting the development of other preschools in the North East of Hampshire.
This is pat’s story:
I am the Deputy and group SENCO for the playgroup of which I am very proud. It all started 20 years ago, like a lot of us, as a mother helper, when the last of my six children started playgroup, as a rather shy little boy, so I was happy to stay until he settled!
Almost all of my six grandchildren have been to this playgroup and loved every minute, the older ones still talk about their experiences in the group.
I have over the years completed many courses up to and including a level 4 Diploma in Early Years and I am now about to embark on my Foundation Degree, all of which I very much enjoy.
My most challenging role is working with children with special needs it’s the part of my job I most enjoy, the rewards gained from watching the child’s behaviour and development progress is the best part of the job, it makes it all worth the patience and paperwork to see a happy child and parents.
I believe that children’s personal and social development is one of the most important aspects of their learning, without the skills that promote their self confidence, a child would find it difficult to learn and that’s what we in our playgroup do our utmost to promote with our key caring groups and home visits offered to all families who walk in our doors. I firmly believe in nurturing children offering them a home from home environment and encouraging firm attachments within a very happy environment where the child’s interests are at the forefront of everything we do for these precious little ones.
