Gillian Davidson
English Literature Teacher / ELL / Learning Support Specialist
Izmir
Summary
Experienced with classroom instruction, lesson planning, and student assessment. Utilizes effective communication and engagement strategies to enhance student learning. Knowledge of PYP MYP and DP educational standards and practices, ensuring compliance and achievement of academic goals.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages - English Turkish
Work History
MYP English Literature Teacher
Işıkkent Eğitim Kampüsü
Izmir, Izmir
08.2025 - Current
- Developed engaging activities, such as debates or group projects, to foster collaboration and active learning among students.
- Assessed student performance using a variety of evaluation tools like quizzes, presentations, written assignments, and exams.
- Promoted critical thinking skills by guiding students through the analysis of complex texts from various genres and time periods.
- Improved writing abilities by providing comprehensive feedback on essays, research papers, and creative pieces.
Learning Support Specialist
MEF International School
Istanbul, Istanbul
08.2022 - 08.2025
- Develop individualised educational plans addressing academic and social needs for students with clinically diagnosed learning difficulties
- Offered one-on-one tutoring sessions outside of regular class hours for additional academic support.
- Develop parallel curriculums for students who struggle to access the curriculum at their own level in line with the PYP curriculum
- Work closely with the learning support team to ensure clear communication and to evaluate our best practices
- Actively participated in school-wide initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive environment for all students.
- Organized workshops for parents focused on understanding their child''s unique needs and how best to support them at home.
- Provided ongoing professional development opportunities for staff related to best practices in supporting diverse learners.
Primary School Deputy Principal
MEF International School
Istanbul, Istanbul
11.2023 - 06.2024
- Managed daily and weekly schedules for Primary School, including academic classes and extracurricular activities
- Coordinated and organiseed field trips
- Promoted a safe and inclusive learning environment by addressing student needs, both academically and emotionally.
- Developed a positive school culture through effective communication and collaboration among staff, students, and parents.
- Served as a positive role model and leader within the school community, fostering an environment of respect, trust, and support among everyone.
Native English Teacher (Grades 1,2 and 3)
TED Izmir Koleji
Izmir, Izmir
08.2017 - 06.2022
- Developed innovative lesson plans to engage students in English language learning.
- Prepared and implemented lesson plans covering required course topics.
- Planned dynamic lessons to increase student comprehension of books and literary concepts.
- Promoted a positive learning environment by modeling respect, empathy, and active listening skills during all interactions with students.
Teaching Assistant and Speech and Language Therapy Assistant
Paddock Secondary School
London
09.2014 - 08.2016
- Supported children in reaching their full potential by embracing and celebrating their unique abilities
- Use techniques such as PECS, TEACCH, Attention Autism and Sensory play
- Work on a 1-to-1 basis with children that require either additional support or adapted activities
- Help to make resources specific to each individual child e.g. schedules and PECS communication boards
- Liaise with therapy departments to plan and implement speech and language therapy support for each child
Education
B.A. - Music Industry Management
01.2012
PEEX2 And PEERAMID
04.2001 -
CSML Course - Leading Change
07-2023
CSML Course - Leading Learning
10-2023
Child Behaviour Diploma -
02-2020
CPD College Certificate -
07-2020
CPD College Certificate -
08-2018
Level 3 Speech and language support for pupils with severe learning difficulties
12.2015
Training
- PEERAMID Assessment
- PEEX2 Assessment
- Cat. 1 Making the PYP Happen
- Cat. 3 Approaches to Learning
- Cat. 3 Principles of an Inclusive and Equitable Education
- ECIS Level 2 Child protection
- CSML Harvard
- Elklan Level 3
- TEOFL
- I-to-I TEFL Cert.
Skills
Activities
- Presentation 'English Language Learners with Learning Disabilities' at the ATC at Robert College Istanbul
- IZOT Choir
- Interactive day with students to raise awareness in Autism awareness month.
- Charity Cycle Vietnam - Cambodia to raise money for an SEN school in Ghana
Passions
- Food
- Culture
Timeline
MYP English Literature Teacher - Işıkkent Eğitim Kampüsü
08.2025 - Current
Primary School Deputy Principal - MEF International School
11.2023 - 06.2024
Learning Support Specialist - MEF International School
08.2022 - 08.2025
Native English Teacher (Grades 1,2 and 3) - TED Izmir Koleji
08.2017 - 06.2022
Teaching Assistant and Speech and Language Therapy Assistant - Paddock Secondary School
09.2014 - 08.2016
Berta Adato Clinical Psychologist - , PEEX2 And PEERAMID
04.2001 -
ELKLAN - , Level 3 Speech and language support for pupils with severe learning difficulties
University of East London - B.A., Music Industry Management
Harvard Business School - CSML Course, Leading Change
Harvard Business School - CSML Course, Leading Learning
Online Academy - Child Behaviour Diploma,
Jolly Music - CPD College Certificate,
Jolly Phonics Jolly Learning - CPD College Certificate,