Meet the Team: Michelle Thompson - From Graduate to Inclusive Education Tutor

Meet the Team is a blog series at Portobello Institute where we introduce our tutors by exploring their educational and professional backgrounds.

Today, we shine a light on Michelle Thompson, Inclusive Education Tutor at Portobello Institute. Michelle is from County Clare.

Education

What degrees have you earned, and from which institutions?
I completed a degree in Inclusive Education Practice and QQI Level 5 and 6 Special Needs Assisting, from Portobello Institute. Additionally, I earned a Certificate in Public Administration from the University of Limerick and a Diploma in Information Technology from the Limerick Institute of Technology.

Why did you choose this education pathway?
As a parent of a child with Down Syndrome, I chose this path because I wanted to gain further knowledge about inclusive education to better support his needs.

Why did you decide to study to the level you have, and how was your experience?
I found the Level 5 and 6 Special Needs Assisting courses to be a great stepping stone. I was eager to learn more about applying theory to practice, researching evidence-based approaches, understanding the progress Ireland has made in inclusive education, and gaining in-depth knowledge of the legislative frameworks, policies, and best practice guidelines that shape Ireland’s education system today.

What do you feel you have gained from your studies?
I have developed a deeper understanding of the importance of self-reflection and discovered a newfound interest in research.

Career

What is your current role or roles?
I am a tutor for the Safeguarding Health, Wellbeing, and Rights of Children module on the Inclusive Education Degree course.

How did your career start, and how has it progressed?
My tutoring career began after I completed my Degree in Inclusive Education.

Has education been a catalyst for your career, and if so, how?
Yes, absolutely. Education has been the key catalyst in my career progression - from working as an SNA (Special Needs Assistant) to becoming a tutor after completing my degree in Inclusive Education.

A Day in Your Life

Can you outline what a normal workday looks like for you?
My typical day involves corresponding with students about their assessment queries, planning and preparing for upcoming classes, and keeping up to date with relevant policies, best practice guidelines, and legislation.

What are the most important skills you use in your role?
I bring both professional experience as an SNA and personal experience as a parent of a child with special educational needs. This combination allows me to approach my role with authenticity and understanding, which helps foster participation and engagement in class.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love interacting with students - listening to their experiences, sharing my own, and supporting them to reach their full potential. It’s so rewarding to see students flourish as they progress through their educational journey.

What are your goals for your future career and education?
To continue engaging in Continuous Professional Development within the field of inclusive education.

Your Role at Portobello Institute

How is your role as a tutor at Portobello Institute going?
My role is going really well. I’m currently working with two cohorts of students on my module, and it has been wonderful getting to know them and supporting their learning.

Why did you decide to get into tutoring?
When I completed my degree, I was presented with the opportunity to become a tutor. I jumped at the chance to stay involved in inclusive education from both a professional and academic perspective.

What is the best thing about being a tutor in your area of expertise?
I feel proud to play a part in further educating students - especially now, when inclusive education is such an important focus in society.

If you’d like to learn more about our Inclusive Education Degree, Special Needs Assisting (QQI Level 5 and 6) courses, or any of our other related education programmes, visit our faculty page here.