At a Glance
- Tasks: Train assistance dogs to support autistic individuals and their families.
- Company: Join a charity dedicated to helping neurodivergent people through assistance dog programmes.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, training opportunities, travel expenses covered, and a chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the lives of families while working with amazing dogs.
- Qualifications: 1-2 years of dog training experience and a passion for supporting neurodiversity.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth and a positive team atmosphere.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Autism Dogs Charity supports autistic and neurodivergent people and their families through our assistance dog programmes. We provide practical, welfare-focused training and long-term aftercare, helping autistic individuals develop a bond with their partnered autism assistance dog. This bond helps to build confidence and create calmer, more manageable daily routines.
We are looking for responsible and enthusiastic trainers based close to the South London area, to work with our clients in the region, but also travel, with travel time and expenses paid, to our HQs in Lincoln and Cheshire.
What you will do:
- You will train carefully procured dogs to support Autistic and Neurodivergent handlers.
- You will be assisting families with basic training and behavioural work.
- You will also train dogs to perform advanced tasks, including training around public access on public transport, school grounds, colleges and medical facilities, and training around remaining undistracted by food and other stimuli.
- We will train you on teaching dogs advanced skills pertaining to autism, such as melt-down and shutdown interventions.
- You will work with amazing trainers and get to learn from them.
- You will get to work with amazing families in need of help, including basic and advanced skills training, helping handlers to develop confidence, and post-delivery support.
- You will undertake deliveries of our assistance dogs to the new family, using either your own car or the charity’s cars.
- You will record with videos and written notes your training sessions of dogs, and keep well-organised files on each dog and each placement program.
What are we looking for:
- Solid skills in dog training with at least 1-2 years of experience and a willingness to learn new skills.
- Willingness to work with families and support them in their assistance dog journey.
- Commitment to the values of inclusion and equal treatment of all.
- Excellent standards of animal welfare.
- Can-do attitude, and a kind and positive style of communication with others.
- A clean criminal record (Enhanced DBS check will be required).
- Organised dog training with the ability to keep written records of all training progress.
- Basic computer skills, knowledge of Gmail and Google Drive.
- Willingness to receive training on neurodiversity, autism, and relevant laws.
- Willingness to attend public relations events and participate in social media publications.
- A driving licence, and be a careful, responsible driver.
- Living close to London or Reading.
What you will get:
- A supportive working environment, a great team and colleagues that will help you succeed.
- Opportunities to learn new skills, work with great trainers and develop your career.
- Support in undertaking new skills and courses, and several training opportunities.
- The chance to make a difference working with the Charity sector.
- The chance to work with amazing dogs in an environment of excellent welfare standards.
- Expenses during deliveries, travel and time spent travelling for deliveries are covered by the Charity.
- The option to join our retirement scheme.
Assistance Dog Trainer in South London area employer: Autism Dogs CIC
Contact Detail:
Autism Dogs CIC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistance Dog Trainer in South London area
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the charity and its mission! Research Autism Dogs Charity and understand how they support autistic individuals. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your dog training skills! If you can, volunteer or train with dogs before your interview. Being hands-on will not only boost your confidence but also give you real examples to share during your chat.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about scenarios where you've had to adapt your training methods or handle challenging situations. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and adaptability, which are key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to showcase your communication skills! Since you'll be working closely with families, highlight your ability to explain concepts clearly and your experience in building rapport with clients. This is crucial for a successful trainer!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistance Dog Trainer in South London area
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Dog Training: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for dog training and working with autistic individuals. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your skills and commitment to animal welfare.
Be Organised and Detailed: We love a well-structured application! Make sure to keep your written records clear and organised. Mention how you plan to document training sessions and manage files, as this is key in our work.
Highlight Your Willingness to Learn: We’re all about growth here at StudySmarter! In your application, express your eagerness to learn about neurodiversity and autism. This shows us you’re ready to embrace new challenges and expand your knowledge.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Autism Dogs CIC
✨Know Your Stuff About Assistance Dogs
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of assistance dogs and their training, especially in relation to autism and neurodiversity. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks these dogs perform and how they support their handlers. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Show Off Your Training Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous dog training experience in detail. Highlight any specific techniques you've used, particularly those relevant to working with neurodivergent individuals. Bring along examples of your training records or videos if possible, as this can really impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your People Skills
Since you'll be working closely with families, it's crucial to showcase your communication skills. Prepare to share examples of how you've successfully interacted with clients in the past, especially in challenging situations. A positive, can-do attitude will go a long way!
✨Be Organised and Tech-Savvy
As you'll need to keep detailed records of training sessions, demonstrate your organisational skills. Mention your familiarity with tools like Google Drive or OneDrive for storing videos and notes. Being tech-savvy will show that you're prepared for the administrative side of the job.