Catherine Pickin
Lara
Summary
Experienced education support officer specialising in working with children with diverse learning needs, challenging behaviors, and individual backgrounds. Committed to providing individualised support to all children and young people while maintaining high levels of professionalism and record-keeping. Adept at aiding in class planning and organisation, ensuring a conducive learning environment for optimal student growth and development.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Education Support Officer
Free Agency
02.2025 - Current
- Provided tailored support to students across both mainstream and special education settings.
- Utilised verbal and non-verbal communication strategies to facilitate student engagement and support learning outcomes.
- Fostered positive, trusting relationships with students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
- Assisted in the management and de-escalation of challenging behaviours, using trauma-informed and inclusive practices.
- Supported students with complex needs, including non-verbal students and those with significant developmental delays.
- Collaborated with teaching staff to assist in the development and implementation of lesson plans and classroom activities.
Director of Service
TeamKids
11.2022 - Current
- In this role, my duties were focused on maintaining accurate records of incidents managing casual and permanent staff ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies, stakeholder communication and ensuring inclusive welcoming and educational environments for all children and families whilst maintaining exceptional community relationships
- Provided emotional support and practical strategies for children and families
- Created individualized inclusion plans and sensory zones for neurodiverse children
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals and families to address diverse needs
- Advocated for children’s wellbeing and proactively addressed child protection concerns
- Promoted cultural respect by integrating Indigenous perspectives and accommodating diverse needs
Client Service Specialist and Logistics Coordinator
W Park Equestrian Centre
04.2022 - 11.2022
- In this role I was able to apply my previously developed knowledge of logistical coordination and contractor coordination to ensure the seamless operation of a large-scale world-class Equestrian Centre whilst maintaining the highest levels of client satisfaction
- Coordinated logistics and contractor activities to ensure smooth operations of a large-scale, world-class equestrian facility
- Delivered exceptional client service by addressing inquiries and resolving concerns promptly to maintain high levels of client satisfaction
- Maintained accurate records of medication administration and ensured compliance with health and safety regulations
- Oversaw daily administrative tasks, including scheduling, documentation, and communication with internal and external stakeholders
- Collaborated with team members to streamline operations and enhance overall efficiency of the facility
- Supported event preparation and execution, ensuring all logistical aspects were well-managed
- Contributed to maintaining a professional and welcoming environment for clients and visitors
Livestock and Farm Operations Assistant
Forster Farming PTY LTD
11.2018 - 02.2022
- Commencing my employment with Forster Farming I was a school aged trainee studying a certificate IV in Agribusiness, I developed my skills in animal husbandry, livestock welfare compliance, machinery operation as well as gaining my chemical use certifications I then progressed to managing and maintaining the properties NLIS compliance through thorough record keeping
- Developed skills in animal husbandry and livestock welfare compliance
- Operated farm machinery safely and efficiently
- Gained chemical use certifications and applied them on the farm
- Managed and maintained NLIS compliance through accurate record-keeping
- Liaised with stakeholders, including veterinarians and trucking corporations
- Coordinated with state and national regulatory bodies to ensure compliance
- Contributed to process improvements in livestock care and operational efficiency
- Ensured farm operations adhered to local, state, and national regulations
- Fostered positive relationships with external contractors and stakeholders
- Promoted workplace safety through proper machinery operation and chemical handling
- Assisted in training others on industry standards and regulatory requirements
Education
Bachelor - Social Work
Deakin
11-2027
Certificate IV - Agribusiness
TAFESA
01.2021
Skills
- Empathy and Relationship Building
- Resilience and Adaptability
- Communication and Advocacy
- Understanding of Mental Health Systems
- Trauma Informed Care
- Commitment to Learning and Professional Development
- Knowledge of curriculum
- Team Collaboration and Leadership
- Creativity and Problem-Solving
Certification
- Employee Working With Children’s Check
- National Police Check
- Full Unrestricted Drivers License
- Mandatory Reporting
- Provide First Aid
- Provide CPR
- Asthma and Anaphylaxis Management
Education
Studying Bachelor of social work at Deakin University expected to graduate 2027
References
- Vivian Tran, 2IC TeamKids, viviantran1004@gmail.com
- Allison Hale, Director of Service, alli.hale93@gmail.com
Timeline
Education Support Officer
Free Agency
02.2025 - Current
Director of Service
TeamKids
11.2022 - Current
Client Service Specialist and Logistics Coordinator
W Park Equestrian Centre
04.2022 - 11.2022
Livestock and Farm Operations Assistant
Forster Farming PTY LTD
11.2018 - 02.2022
Certificate IV - Agribusiness
TAFESA
Bachelor - Social Work
Deakin
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