Brenda Watson

Personal Advisor

Talent

GBMember since July 6, 2026

Relationship building and trustAdaptability and flexibility in learner supportClear communication and interpersonal skillsMicrosoft OutlookAccurate record-keeping and learner monitoringSafeguarding awareness and multi-agency collaborationCommitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practiceLearner engagement and progression support

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Relationship building and trustAdaptability and flexibility in learner supportClear communication and interpersonal skillsMicrosoft OutlookAccurate record-keeping and learner monitoring

About

Empathetic and dedicated professional with over five years' experience supporting learners with disabilities, learning difficulties, and additional support needs across Post-16 Further Education and social care settings. Skilled in one-to-one mentoring, learner engagement, coursework organisation, and promoting inclusive participation. Experienced in supporting learner progression through effective communication, accurate record-keeping, and ongoing monitoring of progress against agreed goals and outcomes.

My approach centres on building trust, encouraging learner autonomy, and creating safe, learner-centred environments that promote sustained engagement, academic achievement, and personal growth. I embed safeguarding principles throughout my practice in line with organisational policies and procedures, ensuring all learners feel respected, protected, and supported.

Experience

Personal Advisor - NHSCT 16+ Team

(2020-07 - 2025-05)

Delivered person-centred support to 18+ care leavers, asylum seekers, and learners with additional needs, embedding safeguarding principles and collaborating with multi-agency teams to promote education, housing, and wellbeing outcomes.

Supported care leavers with academic progression into FE, HE, and university pathways.
Delivered creative workshops in art, cooking, and wellbeing to enhance engagement and personal development.
Maintained accurate mentoring records and regularly updated the wider support team.
Collaborated with colleges, careers services, housing teams, and mental health professionals to provide holistic, multi-agency support.
Adhered to safeguarding protocols and contributed to coordinated planning across services.

Part Time Inclusive Learning Lecturer & Careers Advisor (Maternity Cover) - Northern Regional College

(2018-07 - 2020-06)

Delivered accredited Entry Level and Level 1–2 programmes in life skills and personal development.
Provided 1:1 career guidance and supported progression into FE, HE, apprenticeships, and employment.
Supported learners in understanding course requirements and managing coursework deadlines.
Organised inclusive careers events and liaised with external agencies.
Maintained accurate learner records, monitored progression against agreed targets, and regularly updated the wider support team on engagement, attendance, and outcomes.

SEN 1:1 Classroom Assistant (Maternity Cover) - Ballycastle High School

(2018-02 - 2018-06)

Provided 1:1 support for a KS3 student with Asperger's and learning difficulties.
Assisted with literacy, emotional wellbeing, and classroom engagement.
Promoted safe practices and supported the student's social and academic development.

Support Worker - Greenlight Gateway Ballycastle (Funded Community Project)

(2016-09 - 2017-12)

Delivered OCN-accredited training in Employability, Personal Development, and Independent Travel.
Supported post-16 learners with coursework organisation and external verification.
Facilitated volunteering and supported employment opportunities.
Delivered OCN-accredited qualifications in Travel Training, Personal Development, and Employability Skills to post-16 students in an outreach capacity at Castle Tower School, Ballymena.
Coordinated inclusive community projects and fundraising events.
Linked with local external training organisation BCW to support service users undertaking vocational courses including hairdressing and beauty therapy.
Supported service users to access work experience opportunities in recycling, hospitality, and horticulture settings to develop employability, independence, and workplace skills.

Adult Support Worker and Activities Co-Ordinator - Camp America

(1999 - 1999)

Supported adults with learning difficulties and disabilities through structured activities, personal support, and community engagement.

Volunteer Support Worker - Greenlight Gateway

(1999 - 2000)

Organised and planned evening programmes and person-centred activities for young people and adults with learning difficulties and disabilities.