There are no events.
When Priyangan Kanagarasa enrolled on the Skills Bootcamp for SEN Professionals in May 2024, he was determined to gain recognised qualifications that would help him move into meaningful employment. Over the course of his training, Priyangan not only built valuable skills and confidence—he went on to secure a permanent role with Educate 2Gether, where he now works as both a Learning Support Assistant and Employment Specialist.
Priyangan began the programme with a straightforward but powerful goal: to gain a qualification and use it to secure a job. He found particular interest in topics such as person‑centred care planning, coping mechanisms in mental health, the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), and Autism Spectrum Conditions—all areas directly relevant to his career aspirations and the learners he now supports.
Throughout the course, Priyangan demonstrated a strong sense of ownership over his learning. He enjoyed writing assignments and made a conscious effort to express ideas in his own words, ensuring originality and genuine understanding. He especially connected with the physical disabilities assignments, where he could relate elements of his own lived experience.
Despite occasional challenges—such as needing to retype work into the submission platform—he remained resilient and proactive. With support from Educate 2Gether tutors, he adapted by completing his work in Word and submitting it with incorporated feedback.
As the programme progressed, Priyangan developed a range of professional skills including:
He also gained a First Aid Appointed Person certificate, further strengthening his employability in care and education settings.
The employability support included as part of his programme played a key role in preparing him for work—and ultimately helped him secure a position within the organisation itself.
Priyangan now applies his knowledge every day in his dual role as a Learning Support Assistant and Employment Specialist at Educate 2Gether. He regularly draws on the understanding and empathy he developed during the course, supporting learners with patience, clarity and sensitivity.
His tutors consistently provided constructive feedback throughout his studies, helping him refine his work and enhance his readiness for professional responsibilities. That encouragement laid the foundation for the high‑quality support he now delivers to learners.
The programme helped Priyangan grow significantly as both a learner and a practitioner. He is now confident in his ability to support individuals with varying needs, apply person‑centred approaches, and remain patient and understanding when working with learners at Educate 2Gether.
His learning aligns strongly with his long‑term aspirations: to continue supporting others, contribute to their progression, and develop professionally within the sector.
Priyangan looks back on his training with appreciation. He enjoyed the engaging teaching style, which included practical examples, open discussions and real‑life scenarios—moving beyond reading from a textbook and creating a richer learning experience.
When asked whether he would recommend Educate 2Gether to others, his response was simple:
Yes, absolutely.
