Melissa Archibald

I am a dedicated and adaptable primary teacher with experience across Australian and Scottish education settings, including classroom teaching, visual arts, targeted literacy intervention and learning support. My practice is explicit and evidence informed, underpinned by a knowledge rich curriculum and a strong focus on positive relationships and high expectations for all students. I use assessment and observation to understand individual points of entry, differentiate learning and provide appropriate support and challenge.

I bring strengths in literacy intervention, inclusive practice and Positive Behaviours for Learning. My previous experience in business ownership and training has also developed strong communication, organisation and leadership skills that continue to support my work in education. I am a reflective and collaborative educator who values ongoing professional growth, positive partnerships with families and the opportunity to contribute to the wider school community.

Intervention Teacher (Grade 1/2) - St. Thomas Aquinas RC Primary School - Norlane, VICTORIA

(2026-04)

• Deliver targeted MiniLit intervention using explicit and systematic literacy instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension.
• Use structured progress monitoring and classroom observations to identify learning needs, review previously taught content and adjust instruction.
• Implement positive behaviour and relationship-based strategies to increase engagement and participation for students requiring additional support.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers and school leaders to support student progress and inclusive learning.

Classroom Teacher (Grade 3/4) - Darley Primary School - Bacchus Marsh, VICTORIA

(2025-01 - 2026-04)

• Plan and deliver engaging learning programs, aligned with the Victorian Curriculum.
• Manage daily enquiries from parents, students, and colleagues with professionalism and care.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and provide regular reports and feedback.
• Collaborate with leadership and teaching teams to ensure consistent practices and contribute to school-wide goals.

Visual Art Teacher 0.6 / Tutor Learning Initiative 0.4 (F-6) - Lara Primary School - Lara, VICTORIA

(2024-07 - 2024-12)

• Delivered Visual Arts lessons for F–6 aligned with the Victorian Curriculum.
• Supported literacy and numeracy through targeted small-group tutoring.
• Handled enquiries from parents, staff, and students, providing clear and timely updates.
• Coordinated student participation in the Geelong Art Show, showcasing cross-curricular learning.
• Responded to classroom needs and administrative queries promptly.

Learning Support Teacher (F-6) - St. Mary's RC Primary School - Bonnyrigg, SCOTLAND

(2024-01 - 2024-06)

• Designed tailored interventions in literacy and numeracy aligned with Scottish Curriculum for Excellence outcomes.
• Collaborated with staff and families to track and support student progress.

Casual Relief Teacher (F-6) - Scottish Borders Council - SCOTLAND

(2023-08 - 2023-12)

• Delivered lessons across literacy, numeracy, and wellbeing with a focus on inclusion and engagement.
• Applied problem-solving to manage diverse classroom challenges and support learning needs.

Classroom Teacher (Grade 5) - St. Ronan's Primary School - Innerleithen, SCOTLAND

(2022-08 - 2023-07)

• Led cross-curricular projects combining literacy, numeracy, social science, and expressive arts.
• Integrated digital tools (Showbie, Kahoot) to engage learners and manage student data effectively.

Education Support (F-6) - Rosewell Primary School - Midlothian, SCOTLAND

(2020-01 - 2021-06)

• Provided 1:1 and small group literacy/numeracy support, maintaining detailed progress records.
• Supported students' social-emotional wellbeing through restorative approaches.

Education Support (Early Years) - Juniper Green Primary School - Edinburgh, SCOTLAND

(2019-08 - 2019-12)

• Assisted with play-based, child-led learning and maintained safe, inclusive environments.

Owner & Director - MEA Beauty & The Beauty Education Centre - Edinburgh, SCOTLAND

(2007-10 - 2022-08)

• Founded and managed a successful beauty salon and training academy.
• Handled high volumes of client and staff enquiries across phone, email, and in person.
• Trained and mentored adult learners and junior staff, developing accredited beauty therapy courses.
• Oversaw finance, compliance, scheduling, and marketing, demonstrating strong organisational skills.

Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) - Primary Education - University of Edinburgh (2022-06)

Bachelor of Arts, Honours Degree - English, Film & Psychology - The Open University, Milton Keynes (2021-06)

Access to Humanities & Primary Education - Access to Humanities & Primary Education (Equivalent to Y12) - Edinburgh College, Edinburgh (2018-06)

National 5 - Mathematics - Edinburgh College, Edinburgh (2018-06)

Higher National Diploma (HND) - Beauty Therapy - Jewel & Esk Valley College, Edinburgh (2004-06)

Scottish Vocational Qualification Level 2 (SVQ2) - Beauty Therapy - Jewel & Esk Valley College, Edinburgh (1999-06)

Standard Grades - English, French, German, Office & Information Studies, History, Art & Design, Mathematics, Chemistry - Penicuik High School, Penicuik (1998-06)