Nida Salameh

Featuring the inspiring work of Nida Salameh

At the British Creative Institute (BCI), our reception is more than just a front desk – it is a warm, welcoming, and supportive space for every student, parent, visitor, and staff member. Leading this space is Nida Salameh, whose dedication and empathy shine through every day.

Nida does not simply “hold a job”; she is a lifeline for many of our SEND learners, going far beyond the rigours of her role to create an environment of safety, kindness, and encouragement. She demonstrates that the role of Reception at BCI is not just administrative, but profoundly human – it is about care, connection, and championing the potential of every young person who walks through our doors.

How Nida supports SEND learners beyond her job role

Nida’s day-to-day work stretches across a wide variety of responsibilities. She wears many hats, each with the same purpose – to ensure that every learner feels valued, supported, and understood.

Here are 17 key ways Nida contributes to BCI’s mission:

1. Welcoming students each morning with warmth and positivity, helping reduce anxiety as learners begin their day.
2. Providing reassurance to nervous students, offering calm words and a safe space when emotions run high.
3. Assisting with appointment scheduling for staff, external therapists, and family meetings, ensuring communication is smooth.
4. Acting as a first point of contact for parents and carers, relaying important information with sensitivity.
5. Helping students organise personal belongings when they feel overwhelmed or disoriented.
6. Guiding learners through daily routines, supporting time management and building independence skills.
7. Offering a listening ear provides students with a safe place to express their frustrations or worries.
8. Supporting staff with safeguarding alerts, ensuring concerns are flagged promptly and appropriately.
9. Managing phone and email communications, always with patience and respect for the families we serve.
10. Assisting with forms, paperwork, and sign-ins, and helping students who may struggle with literacy or confidence.
11. Providing gentle reminders for medication, lunch, or travel arrangements when students need prompts.
12. Ensuring learners are escorted safely to classes, especially when they are unsure of where to go or too anxious to walk alone.
13. Assisting in emergencies, staying calm and attentive, whether it’s a health concern or a behavioural incident.
14. Encouraging students to engage socially and supporting peer interaction in the reception area.
15. Celebrating student successes, whether academic or personal, reminds them that small achievements matter.
16. Acting as a bridge between teaching staff and learners, communicating needs in a professional, empathetic way.
17. Providing a calm environment during transitions, especially for those struggling with change or sensory challenges.

Professional growth through CPD at BCI

Her commitment to her career development matches Nida’s contribution to BCI. She actively participates in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) courses provided at the Institute. These courses equip her with advanced knowledge in:

• SEND awareness and inclusive practices
• Safeguarding and child protection
• Mental health and wellbeing strategies
• Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills
• Customer service and professional communication
• Administration and record-keeping systems
• Equality, diversity, and inclusion training

By embracing these opportunities, Nida is not only refining her professional skillset but also shaping her career aspirations to a higher professional level. She is building a foundation that could lead to more specialist roles within education, pastoral care, or student services – areas where her natural empathy and professionalism can flourish.

Closing Note

At BCI, we are proud that our reception is not just an office function, but the heart of our community – and that is thanks to the outstanding contribution of Nida Salameh. She exemplifies our ethos: support, creativity, and opportunity for every learner.