Joanne Troy – A Journey of Dedication, Discovery, and Deepening Purpose

For Joanne Troy, a career in special education has never been just a job – it has been a calling. For 20 years, Joanne has worked as a Special Needs Assistant at Scoil Shincill, Killeigh, supporting children with ASD in their learning, communication, and daily routines. Those two decades spent witnessing small breakthroughs, building trusting relationships, and helping children express themselves shaped not only her career, but her path in life.

“I have been a Special Needs Assistant for the past 20 years, and I truly love my job.”

Yet even with such fulfilment, Joanne began to sense the possibility of something more – another path that might allow her to expand her impact and open new doors. Now, after undertaking the BA (Hons) Inclusive Education and Practice at Portobello Institute she is equipped and enriched with confidence to move forward with her career in special education.

A Nudge Toward Something New

The want for change came around after Joanne spoke with a colleague and friend who had worked alongside her for eight years. When Joanne confided her interest in teaching, especially special education, she received the encouragement she needed.

“I decided studying was the right step after speaking with a friend who is a principal at a local national school… she encouraged me to take a course that would qualify me to work as a substitute teacher so I could explore whether it was the right direction for my future.”

That conversation planted a seed. Joanne realised it was time to invest in herself and her future.

Choosing Portobello – Flexibility That Made the Impossible Possible

With three children, including a newborn, Joanne needed a course that fit the reality of her life. Portobello Institute’s blended learning model offered exactly that.

“I choose this college because the blended-learning option was exactly what I needed at this point in my life. The convenience of online classes was truly a godsend, especially while caring for three young children, including a newborn. In fact, my daughter Rosie was born only three months after I started the course. The flexibility allowed me to continue my studies without sacrificing my responsibilities as a mother, and it played a huge role in my ability to succeed. 

With the BA (Hons) Inclusive Education and Practice, Joanne found a pathway that allowed her to grow professionally without compromising her role as a mother.

Following Her Passion More Deeply Than Ever

Working with children with ASD has always been at the centre of Joanne’s passion. The degree didn’t just align with that – it deepened and expanded it.

“I am passionate about working with children with special needs, especially those with ASD.

“The relationships I’ve built and the progress I’ve witnessed over the years have been incredibly fulfilling and have played a huge role in shaping my passion for special education.”

The course equipped her with new strategies, stronger understanding, and the ability to create more inclusive, responsive learning environments for children.

“I love being able to help them communicate, learn, and express themselves in ways that feel comfortable and empowering. Watching their progress, no matter how big or small, drives me and reminds me why I chose this path. Taking the Inclusive Education course helped me understand how to better support their learning and communication.  I gained practical strategies and a deeper understanding of how to create supportive, inclusive learning environments.”

Seeing that knowledge come alive in her work reaffirmed why she chose this path.

“The placement not only strengthened my confidence but also confirmed how much I enjoy guiding and mentoring others while continuing to support the student’s learning and development.”

A Student Experience Built on Support and Encouragement

Balancing study, family life, and work wasn’t easy however Joanne felt supported every step of the way.

“My experience at Portobello Institute was busy and challenging, but also extremely rewarding.”

It was the tutors’ encouragement and the sense of belonging within her class that made the journey meaningful.

“The best part of studying at Portobello was the support and encouragement I received, especially as a mature student returning to education.”

She discovered not only academic confidence but lifelong friendships.

“I had the wonderful opportunity to meet and make friends for life with my fellow students, which made the experience even more memorable and rewarding.”

Learning Through the Work She Loves

Joanne completed her placement in the senior ASD classroom in her own school.

“It was an ideal chance to share my knowledge, experience, and skills built up over many years of working with children with ASD.”

One highlight remained especially meaningful: collaborating with a speech therapist to introduce a new communication device for a non-verbal student.

“Watching the student begin to engage with the device and finding new ways to express themselves was a truly meaningful and successful outcome.”

Moments like this reaffirmed her purpose and strengthened her confidence.

Preparing for the Future With New Strength and Possibility

As she finished the programme, Joanne felt ready – ready to grow, ready to support others, ready to take her next steps.

“This work experience has strengthened my confidence and helped me feel more prepared for the next step in my career.”

Her goals remain rooted in special education, with hopes of mentoring, guiding others, and perhaps one day pursuing special educational teaching.

“Overall, this qualification has equipped me with the foundation and inspiration to take the next steps in my career and continue growing professionally.”

A Transformative Chapter

Reflecting on her time with Portobello Institute, Joanne feels both gratitude and pride.

“Yes, this course was the right choice for me. It broadened my opportunities, strengthened my skills, and significantly boosted my confidence.”

Receiving a Special Commendation Award at her recent graduation marks not just her academic success, but the recognition of two decades of dedication to children with additional needs.

Today, Joanne stands ready for the next chapter – grounded in experience, strengthened by new learning, and driven by the same passion that first brought her into this field.

A journey defined by care, enriched by learning, and carried forward with purpose – her story finds its next expression through the qualifications, confidence, and community she discovered at Portobello Institute.