Maisie Denney
Study Type: School Leaver Vocational
Study Location: Broomfield Hall
Subject Studied: Childcare
Broomfield scores highly for inclusion with former T Level student Maisie
Learning about SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) while taking a T Level in Education and Early Years left former Derby College Group student Maisie Denney well prepared for her teaching assistant role.
Maisie, 19, who is neurodivergent, achieved a distinction on her course and has been working in education since September.
She is a TA in a SEND school, where she supports children and young people aged 3 to 19 with complex learning, communication, and physical needs.
Maisie chose the DCG course after being inspired to work in early years by her own “amazing teacher and TA” while she was still at school.
She rates Broomfield Hall highly for its facilities, commitment to inclusion, teaching support, social life, and course content.
She said: “I liked how the teachers encouraged me to be more independent compared to school. I made lots of friends, most of whom I still see, and I got to experience the social side of college, such as going to parties.
“I would recommend Derby College to neurodivergent students. The teaching staff are able to tailor learning resources to each individual, and any reasonable adjustments for exams or assessments are made wherever possible. All students have regular tutorials for support.”
Maisie had been unsure about which route to take after GCSEs until a family member suggested T Levels instead of a purely academic course such as A-levels.
She added: “The mix of academic and practical work on my T Level provided variety and kept the course interesting and relevant.
“I especially liked the SEND element. I also enjoyed work experience, particularly my second year placement in a primary school. It was really helpful to be able to practise teaching in a classroom setting.
“I am now employed as a TA in a SEND school, where I support children and teenagers with their individual learning needs and deliver tailored activities.
“One of the best aspects of my job is the team I work with. I really like them. Everyone is supportive, and I enjoy seeing the children progress throughout the year.”
I liked how the teachers encouraged me to be more independent.