Meet Izzy: A Key Member of the Learning Support Team
Isabella Zimelstern (known as Izzy to us!), joined Bancroft鈥檚 in November 2022 and plays an important role in supporting our pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
This week, she gives us an insight into her role and how she helps pupils overcome challenges and grow in confidence.
Can you tell us a little bit more about your role?
As a Learning Support Assistant, my role involves working closely with pupils who have Special Educational Needs (SEN) to help them access the curriculum and thrive in the school environment. On a normal day, I provide one-to-one support, assist in lessons, adapt resources, and implement strategies tailored to individual needs. I monitor their progress, provide feedback to teachers, and ensure pupils feel supported socially and emotionally. I have also recently started supporting the smooth transition of our SEN pupils from the Prep School to Senior School.
What inspired you to work in the education sector?
I was inspired to give back what I missed when I was at school. Diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of 11, I found school challenging, which had a big impact on me. I wanted to turn those struggles into something positive by helping pupils facing similar challenges. The methods I developed to overcome my difficulties are now tools I share to help others succeed, feel confident in their abilities, and feel understood.
Is there one thing you wish more people knew about your role?
It鈥檚 not just about helping SEN pupils complete tasks鈥攊t鈥檚 about building trust, fostering independence, and creating an inclusive environment where all pupils feel valued and capable.
Having SEN is not reflective of IQ; pupils do go to Oxbridge and top universities鈥攊t鈥檚 just a different way of learning.
How do you collaborate with staff and parents to support SEN pupils?
Collaboration is a cornerstone of my role. I regularly check in with teachers to discuss pupils鈥� progress, share insights, and adapt strategies to meet their individual needs. These check-ins often involve reviewing specific challenges a pupil may be facing in class and brainstorming ways to support them, such as differentiated resources, additional time for tasks, or sensory breaks.
I regularly communicate with parents via email and in-person meetings, which provides an opportunity to update them on their child鈥檚 progress, address concerns, and discuss strategies they can use at home to complement the support we provide at school. This helps to create a unified approach, making our pupils feel supported in all aspects of their lives.
What is the most rewarding part of your role?
The most rewarding part is seeing the pupils grow in confidence and independence.Watching them achieve something they initially thought was impossible鈥攚hether it鈥檚 answering a question in class or making a new friend鈥攊s incredibly fulfilling.
Every pupil is unique in their own way, so finding the right approach for each individual takes time and patience. One of my proudest moments was helping a pupil overcome a particularly challenging topic. They had been struggling for some time, but through consistent support and encouragement, they eventually mastered it. Seeing the pride on their face and knowing I played a role in helping them reach that point was incredibly rewarding.
Can you tell us your thoughts on the Bancroft鈥檚 community?
The Bancroft鈥檚 community is incredibly supportive and inclusive, with a genuine commitment to helping every pupil succeed. The collaborative spirit among staff, pupils, and parents creates a fantastic environment to work in, and I feel proud to be part of a team that champions pupil growth in such a meaningful way.
Teachers and Support Staff work closely to ensure that every pupil feels empowered and supported in their learning journey.
I鈥檝e also noticed how welcoming and encouraging the pupils are towards one another. There is a strong culture of respect and kindness, making the school a safe place where everyone can express themselves and thrive. This sense of belonging is especially important for SEN pupils, as it helps them feel included and valued within the wider school community.
Beyond my role in learning support, I enjoy getting involved in school activities, such as trips, FUNbledon, the Netball tour for our Thirds and swimming galas.
Do you have any exciting plans in your department that you would like to share?
We are currently planning a coffee morning for parents of children with SEN, providing an opportunity for them to come together and share strategies that have helped them. We鈥檙e also developing social skills workshops and tailored resources to help pupils navigate challenging situations, such as making friends or managing disagreements.
One thing I鈥檇 like to mention as well is that we have a support package available to all pupils, not just those with SEN. This includes study skills, executive functioning, and essay planning, ensuring that every pupil has the tools they need to succeed.
Thank you, Izzy, for taking the time to give us a glimpse into the work you do for our pupils.
