Susan McKenzie – Rediscovering Ambition Through Education in Inclusive Education Practice

Susan MacKenzie didn’t start her career in education, but today she is building a future firmly rooted in it. Working as an Additional Needs Assistant in a mainstream primary school in Dublin, she is now completing her BA (Hons) in Inclusive Education Practice with Portobello Institute, a journey shaped by long-held ambition, growing confidence, and a deep commitment to supporting children with additional needs.

“When I left school, I ended up getting a job at a bank. Studying at university level wasn’t an option financially for me back then.

“While I thoroughly enjoyed working in a bank, I wouldn’t say I was passionate about it,” she said.

Her move into education came unexpectedly, but it quickly became clear she had found her path.

“Absolutely, I fell into working as an SNA when the principal at my son’s school asked if I could sub as an SNA. He knew me from just getting involved with the school and thought the role would suit me. I gave it a try and thoroughly enjoyed that day. So much so I applied for a full-time position, 18 years later I am still as enthusiastic about the role as I was on day one,” she said.

A Long-Held Ambition to Return to Education

Despite building a career she loved, Susan always felt there was more she wanted to achieve.

“I always had a yearning to study at degree level, but I suppose confidence and life got in the way,” she said.

That changed when she made the decision to return to education.

“However, I can say that making the decision to return to education has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. My confidence has grown hugely, and I now recognise that I am academically minded and passionate about the topic I am studying,” she said.

Her studies have not only fulfilled a personal goal but have had a clear professional impact.

“Being able to apply best practice with theory and adopt different frameworks where need be, has had an immense impact professionally,” she said.

Choosing Portobello: A Flexible Route to Progression

For Susan, finding a course that worked around her life was essential.

“I chose Portobello Institute because of the ease of use. The course is online based which suited me timewise, allowing me to balance work and family life while studying.

“I could also do my placement hours in my workplace setting which made the choice an easy one,” she said.

This flexibility has made studying accessible without compromising other commitments.

“For me the fact that this course is online based makes studying so accessible. All lectures are recorded also and are easily accessed if you can’t make a lecture,” she said.

Turning Passion Into Academic Growth

Susan’s passion for working with children has been built over nearly two decades, and now she is strengthening it through formal education.

“The children have taught me so much. It is only now that life has allowed me the time to support my passion with further study,” she said.

While she has completed many professional development courses over the years, this experience has been different.

“I have completed so many CPD courses over the years and while they have been beneficial, there’s nothing like studying at a degree level about a topic you are passionate about. It enhances your knowledge immensely and I only regret that I didn’t begin this journey 10 years ago,” she said.

Applying Learning in the Classroom

A key strength of Susan’s experience has been the direct link between her studies and her day-to-day work.

During her placement, she supported a student in a busy classroom environment using theory from her course.

“I was based in 1st class and was able to apply Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to assist a student who really was struggling in a busy class environment.

“The outcome was hugely positive… Based on the students’ needs, I was able to recommend, implement, and improve the classroom environment,” she said.

The results were clear.

“We noticed a huge improvement in student behaviour and a willingness to participate in classroom activities where there was previously a refusal to do this.”

This experience reinforced the value of combining theory with practice.

“I found that I was able to provide theoretical knowledge in a real-world context,” she said, while also developing “confidence, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively.” she said.

A Supportive and Accessible Student Experience

Susan describes her time studying at Portobello Instituteas both enjoyable and well-supported.

“I really enjoy being a student at Portobello Institute. The course is online, but I have met some lovely people throughout this course and the tutors are fantastic.

“There is so much support, our tutors are just an email away, and we have discussion boards too that we can put up any query we need help with,” she said.

Now in her final year, she reflects on how quickly the journey has passed.

“Now in my final year with Portobello Institute, I can honestly say that the time has flown by.”

Her recommendation is clear.

“I would absolutely recommend Portobello Institute to a friend. My experience has been extremely positive, and I am so grateful for my tutors and their support.” she said.

A Course Aligned With Values

For Susan, the course has been the right fit not just professionally, but personally.

“This course was the perfect choice for me as it aligns closely with my values of equity, diversity, and respect for all learners,” she said.

It has also strengthened her understanding of inclusion in practice.

“Enhancing my understanding of how to create supportive and accessible learning environments enables me to respond effectively to the diverse needs of students.

“This course has deepened my awareness of the barriers some learners face and has equipped me with the knowledge to promote participation and inclusion within the classroom,” she said.

Looking Ahead: Progression and Purpose

As she approaches graduation, Susan is focused on continuing her journey in education.

“My next step will be further studies either a masters or a post graduate course,” she said.

Her ambition is specific and grounded in her experience.

“Ideally, I would love to do a post graduate course that would enable me to work with children with additional needs without the requirement for Irish [language] as I am only interested in teaching children with additional needs,” she said.

A Journey of Confidence and Capability

For Susan, returning to education has reshaped how she sees herself and her future.

“This qualification is preparing me for my future career by equipping me with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required in a professional setting.

“It has developed my ability to think critically, communicate effectively, enhance my understanding of inclusive practices, and has prepared me to create equitable and supportive learning environments,” she said.

Looking ahead, she is clear about what this journey has given her.

“Upon graduating, this degree will support my transition to post graduate or master’s level, as I have become a reflective, adaptable learner who has gained the required knowledge to succeed in any future endeavours.”

Her story is one of rediscovered confidence, sustained passion, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference, not just for herself, but for the children she supports every day.