Leona Carlisle

De La Salle 

www.delasallecollege.org.uk

Subject or Primary School Year:  Intervention Assistant 

Place of Birth: Belfast

Where you studied: St Genevieve's High School Belfast

What was your first job? Chef

What did your first job teach you?  My first job was as a chef and it taught me several valuable lessons. I discovered the importance of teamwork, realising that each member's contribution is crucial to our overall success. I emphasise its importance to our boys, showing them how each person's contribution matters. I want them to know they are all part of one big team in De La Salle.  

Running a station highlighted the significance of managing my tasks efficiently, maintaining high standards, and ensuring everything was prepared on time. Managing a station helped me develop organisational skills and responsibility, which I now pass on to our boys by guiding them in managing their time and tasks effectively.  

I also learned the importance of accountability; understanding that if I failed in my duties, it could negatively impact the entire team and the service we provided. I try to get our boys to understand the impact of their actions on others, fostering a sense of responsibility and collaboration.  

Family/Status:  I have been with my  partner John for ten years and we have three beautiful girls. 

Best advice you would give to someone thinking of a teaching career:  Teaching in my school can be emotionally demanding due to the complex needs of our boys. It's crucial to be emotionally strong and stable, as this will help you manage the challenges and avoid feeling overwhelmed. 

It's important to meet each boy where they are. Building a relationship based on trust and respect is essential in my school. Our boys need to know that you are there for them, but also that you will hold them accountable for their actions. 

I always try to maintain a positive attitude and offer encouragement to our boys. Letting them know that I believe in them can inspire them to start or complete daunting tasks. 

Leona has raised three beautiful children, two who are twins and one who has recently moved to Australia. She has lived in West Belfast her entire life; she proudly went to St Genevieve's High School and then onto Springvale College to become a chef. This led her to open her own business, Double Trouble Cheesecakes.   

Leona joined the team at De La Salle because she wanted a new challenge and always thought she could inspire young people to reach their full potential. Each day she bounces into school with a massive smile on her face, her positivity is infectious. The pupils are uplifted by her energy, and she naturally brings the best out of them.  

Leona’s commitment to her boys is admirable. She is determined to be a positive part of their school journey. The boys know she wants them to become independent, successful young men and make smart life choices.  

Leona has never forgotten her catering roots and often makes the boys tasty treats. Her chocolate brownies are legendary and every bunch made disappears quickly. The boys regularly tell her that they are the best brownies in the West.  

Leona’s role does not stop in the classroom. She is involved in multiple extracurricular activities. For example, this year she taught the boys to make scones and homemade jam with their grandparents. No task is too big for this incredible teaching assistant.