Thriving in the Role: Professional Practice and Career Pathways for Education Support Workers

What Will You Learn?

• Define the professional scope and ethical boundaries of the ESW role with confidence
• Build working relationships with classroom teachers that are collaborative, clear, and built on mutual respect
• Use support strategies that grow student independence rather than creating reliance on you
• Recognise the early signs of burnout and apply practical tools to protect your own wellbeing
• Communicate effectively with families in ways that are honest, boundaried, and genuinely useful
• Make a clear case for your own professional development and advocate for recognition within your school
• Navigate the career pathways available to ESWs including specialist roles and further study
• Build a long-term plan for a sustainable, fulfilling career in education support