Chez Mendez

Highly experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) with over 12 years' experience supporting children with SEND, including ASD, behavioural needs, anxiety, and physical needs under EHCPs. Skilled in 1:1 interventions, Occupational Therapy support, Physiotherapy support, LEGO Therapy, and Zones of Regulation to improve emotional regulation and learning outcomes. Confident communicator and adaptable team player with proven ability to work collaboratively with teachers, SENDCOs, therapists, parents/carers, and external agencies.

Known for a calm, flexible, and nurturing approach that promotes positive behaviour, inclusion, and pupil well‑being.

Teaching Assistant / Occupational Therapy Support at Harris Academy Sutton (2022-09 – 2025-11)

• Delivered 1:1 interventions for pupils with ASD, behavioural difficulties, and physical needs
• Supported implementation of EHCP targets, including Physiotherapy activities
• Worked closely with Occupational Therapists and Behaviour Specialists, meeting weekly to review strategies
• Used Zones of Regulation to monitor and improve pupil behaviour and emotional regulation
• Liaised with external agencies, parents, and school staff to support cognitive and emotional development
• Supported pupils' well‑being, engagement, and access to learning

Teaching Assistant at Redhill Primary Catholic School (2019-10 – 2020-01)

• Supported a non‑verbal Reception pupil in a mainstream setting
• Managed individual medical and learning needs
• Created laminated visual timetables and name resources to support routine and comprehension
• Assisted class teacher with Phonics, Literacy, Maths and Reading
• Supported whole‑class learning and daily classroom routines

Teaching Assistant at Castle Hill Primary School (2019-04 – 2019-06)

• Worked 1:1 with a pupil with special educational needs
• Supported learning across Core Subjects
• Transported pupils safely from reception to class
• Maintained structured daily routines
• Supported break and lunchtime supervision

Teaching Assistant at Focus School, Kenley (2017-07 – 2019-04)

• Supported a pupil with Williams Syndrome
• Delivered personalised learning based on an Individual Learning Plan
• Created and used visual timetables with velcro sequencing
• Supported slower‑paced written tasks and learning comprehension
• Acted as scribe during examinations

SEND Teaching Assistant at Stanley Park High School (2015-07 – 2015-12)

• Supported Key Stage 3 & 4 SEND pupils with varying behavioural and learning needs
• Provided in‑class support, particularly in Maths
• Used mind‑mapping and SPAG strategies to improve literacy understanding
• Supported pupils experiencing anxiety, reading difficulties, and emotional regulation challenges

Volunteer Teaching Assistant at Croydon Supplementary Education Project (2007-06 – 2015-03)

• Volunteered weekly supporting Primary pupils
• Delivered 1:1 Maths and English interventions
• Prepared pupils for mainstream education
• Improved pupil confidence and academic engagement

Acting Head of House / Receptionist / Attendance Officer at Selsdon High School (2009-12 – 2010-10)

• Worked closely with Senior Leadership Team
• Managed attendance, behaviour cases and intervention meetings
• Liaised with Social Services, Education Welfare Officers, and Court Officers
• Conducted parent meetings regarding attendance and behaviour

BA (Hons) in Fashion Design – University of Creative Arts, Rochester

Certificate in Mentoring and Pastoral Care

Certificate in Mentoring – CSEP

Certificate in Personal Effectiveness

NVQ Level 2 in Retailing – Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge

BTEC First & National Diploma in Fashion Design – Croydon College

RSA CLAIT in Computer Literacy

Fashion Management – DTI Portobello Business Centre