Isla McLEOD

Experienced youth and children's worker, with a strong background in supporting people with complex needs through trauma-informed, person-centred practice. Passionate about empowering individuals to build confidence and independence. Skilled in creative engagement and wellbeing support, with a commitment to assisting people to achieve positive goals.

EARLY YEARS ASSISTANT - Forrest Kindergarten - HawkHill Woods

(2025-06 - 2026-02)

• Encouraged independence through everyday routines such as snack preparation, dressing, and self-care.
• Promoted positive behaviour and emotional regulation through calm and empathetic communication.
• Worked collaboratively with key workers and senior practitioners to implement developmental assessments and transitions.
• Supported outdoor learning and nature-based exploration to enhance sensory and physical development.

EARLY YEARS ASSISTANT - Forest kindergarten - Lauriston Castle

(2024-08 - 2025-06)

• Supported children with additional support needs and different learning needs, achieve their personal outcomes.
• Supported the day to day running of the nursery, in compliance with Health and Safety guidelines and ensuring the children's welfare.
• Implemented child-led experiences through creative activities
• Family engagement and communication adult navigator - medics against violence

(2023-07 - 2024-07)

• Provided practical and emotional support to adults with complex needs, empowering them to make positive lifestyle changes.
• Applied trauma-informed, strengths-based practice to build resilience and autonomy.
• Collaborated with housing, welfare, and health agencies to address individual needs.
• Maintained accurate, confidential case notes and contributed to reflective team practice.

youth navigator - medics against violence

(2022-02 - 2023-07)

• Supported young people experiencing mental health challenges, homelessness risk, or additional support needs.
• Conducted needs assessments and developed personal support plans.
• Ensured compliance with GDPR, Health & Safety, and safeguarding policies.
• Advocated for access to education, employment, and housing services.

youth worker - corstorphin community centre

(2021-01 - 2021-12)

• Delivered 1:1 and group support to young people using a person-centred, trauma-aware approach.
• Designed and facilitated wellbeing workshops promoting resilience and self-esteem.
• Collaborated with families to provide mentoring and parenting support.
• Kept detailed records in line with GDPR and service protocols.

Youth Support Worker

(2020-01 - 2020-07)

Supporting youths with mental health needs and neurodiversity to maintain their own tenancy

• Liaising with social housing providers around rent debts and repairs.
• Maintaining accurate written reports of support.
• Giving advice around budgeting.

1:1 Youth & young parents support worker - granton youth centre

(2019-01 - 2019-12)

• Managed a caseload of young people and families offering emotional and practical guidance.
• Supported clients to access welfare, housing, and education services.
• Encouraged autonomy and self-advocacy through consistent, supportive engagement.

PLAYWORKER - CENTRAL LEITH AFTER SCHOOL PROVISION

(2018-04 - 2018-08)

• Supported children in a safe, inclusive environment through creative and play-based learning.
• Helped manage challenging behaviours calmly and positively.
• Promoted wellbeing and healthy habits.

YOUTH WORKER - PILTON YOUTH AND CHILDRENS PROJECT

(2017-11 - 2018-06)

• Promoted confidence building and self-esteem through 1-2-1 and group work.
• Supported disadvantaged children and young people (ages 5–18) through mentoring and structured activities.
• Encouraged confidence, literacy, and numeracy through tailored interventions.
• Promoted equality, inclusion, and resilience through positive role modelling.
• Promoted healthy communication styles and mediated conflicts between young individuals.

HC - Youth Work - NAPIER UNIVERSITY (2013)

Personal Development Group - EDINBURGH COLLEGE (2008)

HNC - Counselling - EDINBURGH COLLEGE (2007)

COSCA Counselling Skills - EDINBURGH COLLEGE (2005)