Leah

My Summary

My Experience

Specialist Disability & Mobility Support: With an 18-year career in care starting in 2007, I provide expert support for individuals with physical challenges. This includes my current ongoing role (8 months+) supporting a teenager with Ataxia. I also have a strong historical background in high-needs 1:1 care, including one year of dedicated support for a client with Cerebral Palsy (2012–2013). I am skilled in managing an Ataxic gait, implementing physiotherapy routines, and navigating physical safety.

Special Educational Needs (SEN) & Education: I hold a Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning and have extensive experience supporting children with Autism. My background covers both classroom-based 1:1 support and specialised SEN nannying, where I focus on helping children navigate communication difficulties and emotional regulation challenges.

Communication & Engagement: I have completed Makaton Foundation training (Levels 1–4); while I haven't used it recently, I have a strong foundation in signs and symbols and am happy to refresh these for a specific child’s needs. I have also used "Floortime" (DIR) principles to follow a child’s lead, building the trust and emotional engagement necessary for meaningful connection.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Therapeutic Partnership: Throughout my career, I have worked closely alongside Occupational Therapists (OT), Speech and Language Therapists (SALT), and Physiotherapists. I am highly experienced at integrating therapeutic goals into a child’s daily routine—whether that is practicing fine motor skills, using communication aids, or following specific mobility exercises. I am a confident communicator who enjoys collaborating with professionals to ensure a consistent, holistic approach to a child’s development.

Positive Emotional Support: I am experienced in "tuning in" to a child’s emotional state to prevent or de-escalate dysregulation. My goal is always to provide a calm, stable presence that helps children feel safe while they learn to manage their feelings and navigate their day.

Early Years & Nanny Experience: I am a seasoned nanny with history in "Nanny Shares" and toddler care. I create a warm, nurturing environment that balances play-based learning with a calm, stable routine.

My Qualifications

Core & Education Qualifications and training

Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support in Teaching and Learning in Schools (CACHE)

Level 2 Certificate in Health and Social Care (2025)

Paediatric First Aid (Valid/Current 2024)

Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene * Common Core Skills and Knowledge for the Childcare Register (2024)

Understanding Autism (CACHE Level 2) (2021)

The SCERTS Model Training (Social communication and emotional regulation)

Makaton Foundation (Levels 1–4)

National Autistic Society Early Bird Plus Programme

Positive Handling & De-escalation

Introduction to Floortime (DIR) Principles

My Availability

I am available during weekdays and evenings.

My Fees

• Babysitting from £15.00 per hour
• Nannying from £17.50 per hour (gross)

My rates reflect my 18 years of experience and the specific level of responsibility required for each role. I am committed to providing high-quality, dedicated care for every child I support.

Standard Nannying & Childcare: £17.50 per hour (Gross)

Includes: Daily routine management, nursery/school runs, meal preparation, and developmental play for children.

Specialist SEN & Complex Care: £18-20 per hour (Gross)

Includes: 1:1 support for children with additional needs, managing physical mobility requirements (Ataxia/Cerebral Palsy), implementing therapy routines, and specialised communication support.

Please Note: Rates are negotiable depending on the specific hours and the complexity of the requirements. I am also happy to discuss custom rates for Nanny-Share arrangements.