Heather Neely

My name is Heather Neely. I am an AAO in the SEN Early Years Inclusion Service based currently in Maydown. Prior to this I was a teaching Principal in Garvagh Primary and Pre-School for four years. This job involved many different aspects; Principal duties, teaching a KS1/2 class 3 days per week, SEN co-ordinator and Designated Teacher for Child Protection. Although the workload was intense it was a role I very much enjoyed. It was very rewarding to lead the school through a rapid period of school improvement and secure a great outcome in ETI Inspection. I’ve also worked with CCEA as a Professional Associate and been involved in different projects such as; writing the updated Pre-School Curricular Guidelines, presenting Early Years training, Key Stage 1 and 2 moderation and critically reviewing educational documents.

Since taking up post in May 2019 I have been struck by the comparisons between a small school and that of a very large organisation. I wanted to be involved as a champion because I believe we all have an individual role to play in shaping the corporate organisation and strengthening our professional work community for the better. I’m inspired by Helen Keller who said, ‘Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much’. I’m looking forward to being part of the Health and Well-being initiative!