Meet Lucinda
“Lucinda has a really noticeable and positive impact on the children she works with.”
Lucinda Garthwaite
Trainee Children’s Occupational Therapist
I am Lucinda and I’m the Now, Next & Then Trainee OT. I first met and worked with Emma in 2020 when I was working in a local school, supporting children with challenges that needed a little extra support. Part of my remit was to work with Emma to creatively implement the bespoke recommendations and resources that were detailed in her comprehensive reports. By working with the whole person and addressing the multi-layered aspects of their day-to-day challenges it was inspirational to witness these young people gain greater understanding and appreciation of themselves and their unique contribution. I realised that much of my life experience was enabling me to actively, creatively and playfully support children to overcome the barriers that stood in the way of them living their true potential. Hence, I found myself at a new beginning, returning to education as a mature student to study Occupational Therapy at UWE in Bristol, on the apprenticeship programme. This means I am now benefiting from the stupendous training ground @NN&T, through which I am growing my understanding and experience of paediatric OT, alongside Emma’s wealth of experience and coaching. I have a working environment where I can apply and consolidate my Uni learning through hands on practice, as well as a team of colleagues whose commitment to making a difference is second to none.
“Lucinda has a thoughtful, curious and professional approach, while always being keen to show empathy and compassion.”
• Chloe’s Parents •
I have ten years’ experience as a swim instructor, teaching young people from 3 to 18 years, including working with SEN learners. Over the years I have consistently observed the value of providing a safe, fun and motivational environment, where learners are supported to challenge themselves and reignite the joy of self-discovery and determination. I am a trained Lifeguard and also an Aqua Natal instructor, and have really enjoyed teaching safe, water-based exercises to women at this transformative time of their lives. As a teacher and 1:1, and now as a Trainee OT, I am passionate about facilitating a relationship between parent, child, and specialist, having observed the foundational impact this three-way connection has on development. My creative arts background has helped me adapt my work towards all learners and has been a source from which to keep things fresh and accessible, in many areas of my life.
In my home life I am committed to my health and fitness; I have a gf/df diet, so have experience of special dietary requirements. I love swimming, earthy colours, painting and decorating, my electric blanket and walking with my dog Gelda. I am a parent to three awesome young people and our relationships continue to grow, inspire, challenge and enrich my life and work today.