Fran Trehy
Special Needs Assisting
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Position: Special Needs Assisting lecturer
‘The heartfelt hero, using their talents to help students discover their own. Dedicating their time and energy each day to the students in their care, and doing it all while meeting the individual needs of many.’
About Fran Trehy
With almost two decades of hands-on experience as a Special Needs Assistant, Fran Trehy brings real-world insight, deep compassion, and a lifelong passion for inclusive education to her teaching.
Fran holds an MA in Inclusive Education and Special Educational Needs from Portobello Institute, alongside a degree in Arts and Humanities with a focus on Family Studies.
Her academic achievements complement a wealth of practical experience supporting children with a wide range of needs, including those who have experienced trauma. These experiences have given Fran a unique depth of understanding and empathy, which she carries into every aspect of her work.
Now a lecturer in Inclusive Education Practice at Portobello Institute, Fran is dedicated to equipping Special Needs Assistants and inclusive education specialists with not only the knowledge and skills they need, but also the confidence and compassion to make a lasting difference. Charity trips to India to promote Inclusive education through a series of lectures for practitioners had been a privilege for her to inspire other Educators.
Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that inclusive education is more than just strategies; it is about creating safe, supportive, and empowering environments where every child and every learner can thrive. Fran’s classrooms are spaces where curiosity is encouraged, every question matters, and students are inspired to grow both professionally and personally.
Qualifications
- BA Hons, Arts and Humanity focusing on family studies
- Special Needs Assisting Level5 and Level 6
- Dyslexia, Dyspraxia awareness certificates
- PECS and ABA Certificates
- MA Inclusive Education and SEN