Professional Supervision - Becoming a Reflective Practitioner

Overview

Talk on "Professional Supervision - Becoming a Reflective Practitioner" by Vicky Pannell and Karen Ward-Welch

Speakers' Biography:

Vicky Pannell is a British Sign Language interpreter with over 15 years of experience as an interpreter in many different domains such as Community interpreting, Access to Work, Health settings including Mental Health and Video Relay interpreting. I specialise in interpreting in performance settings for both theatre and live music.

Alongside her interpreting work, she is a trained assessor and supervisor, supporting the development of both trainee and qualified interpreters. Her approach is rooted in reflective practice, ethical awareness, and the belief that continual learning strengthens both the individual and the profession.

As a mentor, she helps interpreters build confidence, refine their creative process, and navigate the practical and emotional challenges of working as an interpreter.

Karen Ward-Welch qualified as a British Sign Language/English Interpreter in 2004 and have worked across a wide range of interpreting domains throughout the UK. She is also a qualified Professional Supervisor, having completed the Diploma in Supervision for Sign Language Interpreters and Allied Professionals with 360 Supervision in 2024.

Her interest in Professional Supervision grew from experiencing its value in her own practice. It offered a dedicated space to reflect on professional dilemmas, recognise patterns and consider different perspectives. This inspired her to train as a Professional Supervisor, supporting interpreters and other professionals working within the helping professions through reflective practice, gentle challenge and the development of their own insight and strategies.

The talk will cover the following:

• What is Professional Supervision?

• What is Reflective Practice?

• What is Mentoring and Coaching?

• The differences between Mentoring and Professional Supervision

• The Aims of Professional Supervision

• The Functions of Professional Supervision

• Why is Professional Supervision needed and how it can benefit you

• A short demonstration of Professional Supervision

If you have any accessibility needs, please let us know at least 24 hours before the event so we can make the necessary arrangements where possible by emailing chairman@ait-professionals.com or leaving a message at our virtual office on 02030967860.