At a Glance
- Tasks: Support deaf children and families with BSL communication in various settings.
- Company: Isle of Wight Council, dedicated to empowering the deaf community.
- Benefits: 32 days annual leave, pension scheme, travel discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on collaboration and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of deaf children and their families.
- Qualifications: Experience with deaf children and confident BSL communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30841 - 33699 € per year.
Contract – Permanent, Full-time, 37 hours per week
Department – Specialist Teacher Advisory Service
Salary – Grade 8, £30,841 to £33,699 per annum
Location – County Hall, Newport, Isle of Wight
Closing date – 08 June 2026
This role is office-based; however, it also offers some agile or remote working.
Following the planned retirement of our much-respected colleague after 25 years supporting deaf children and families across the Island, we are seeking a skilled and exceptional professional who will place children and families at the centre of their work supporting the development and advocacy of British Sign Language (BSL). This is a fantastic opportunity to join the Specialist Teaching Advisory (STA) Service supporting deaf babies, children and young people (CYP) across the Isle of Wight. You would be joining a small and passionate team of specialist teachers.
You will play a vital role in delivering early intervention and statutory provision in line with the SEND Code of Practice, supporting deaf CYP and their families to access BSL and develop early signed communication. Working closely with Teachers of Deaf Children and Young People (QToD), families, setting-employed Communication Support Workers (CSW), education, health and social care colleagues, you will contribute to the provision of informed communication choice for deaf CYP.
About the Role
This is a varied and rewarding role combining direct work with deaf CYP, training for setting‑based CSWs, contributing to service‑led courses and early years groups and supporting community access. You will:
- Deliver specialist BSL communication support in homes, early years settings and schools.
- Support families, settings and professionals to develop confidence and competence in signed communication.
- Deliver training programmes, including the Early Years and Primary Signing course, jointly with a Teacher of the Deaf.
- Coach and develop setting‑employed CSWs, monitoring CPD and promoting high‑quality, consistent provision.
- Facilitate access to the National Curriculum and support inclusive educational and social opportunities through the development of setting‑employed CSWs.
- Support exam access arrangements where sign language professional is recommended, in line with JCQ guidance.
- Work with deaf children under the Children with Disabilities Team to provide communication access in homes and the community.
- Take an active role in service monitoring, evaluation and development, including tracking outcomes for deaf CYP and their families.
About You
- Has considerable experience working with deaf CYP.
- Communicates confidently in BSL to a minimum level 3 (ideally level 6).
- Has strong understanding of Deaf culture and the significance of BSL within Deaf identity and history.
- Has an understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and experience working in educational settings.
- Is skilled in adapting materials, notetaking, language modification and creating visual resources.
- Is able to work sensitively and effectively with families.
- Is organised, self‑motivated and confident managing an Island‑wide diary of visits, training and administrative responsibilities.
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding, with a clear understanding of Keeping Children Safe in Education.
We strongly encourage applications from d/Deaf and hard of hearing candidates. Lived experience of deafness is recognised and valued within our service and is seen as a significant professional strength. A current valid UK driving licence is essential, ideally with a suitable vehicle, however a pool car may be available for this role.
About the Team
You will be joining a small, well‑established and supportive team who value collaboration, reflective practice and professional development. We offer a welcoming culture where colleagues are trusted to work autonomously while being well‑supported through supervision, team meetings and shared problem‑solving.
Why Join Us?
- Meaningful, life‑changing work with deaf babies, children and young people.
- A genuinely supportive and specialist service.
- Improving the quality and consistency specialist communication support across Island settings.
- Strong partnership working across education, health and social care.
- Opportunities for further professional development and accredited training.
If you are passionate about BSL and signed communication, relationship‑based practice and empowering deaf children and their families, we would love to hear from you.
For further information or an informal discussion, please contact Hannah Byers at Hannah.Byers@iow.gov.uk or phone 07870901936.
Join #TeamIWC and you’ll receive our staff benefits package, including:
- Annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays.
- Local Government pension scheme.
- Discounted Solent ferry travel.
- Island bus network discount.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Staff parking permit scheme.
- Discounted island sports & leisure gym membership.
- National and local discounts & benefits schemes.
- Relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria).
- Travel allowance may be available if commuting from the mainland (subject to criteria).
Lead Communicator (Communication Support Worker) Isle of Wight Council Local Authority for the [...] in Newport employer: Deaf Unity
The Isle of Wight Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of deaf children and their families. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from opportunities for accredited training, a generous leave package, and a range of local discounts, all while working in a role that is both meaningful and impactful within the community. Join a dedicated team that values your contributions and fosters a culture of trust and autonomy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Communicator (Communication Support Worker) Isle of Wight Council Local Authority for the [...] in Newport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field, especially those already working with deaf children and families. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you have experience in BSL or working with deaf children, consider creating a portfolio or a short video demonstrating your communication skills. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the Isle of Wight Council and their approach to supporting deaf children. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Communicator (Communication Support Worker) Isle of Wight Council Local Authority for the [...] in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for BSL:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for British Sign Language and working with deaf children shine through. Share any personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to empowering families and promoting signed communication.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience with deaf children and your understanding of Deaf culture to make a strong impression.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. This will help us easily see how you fit into our team and the work we do.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, so don’t hesitate to hit that apply button!
How to prepare for a job interview at Deaf Unity
✨Know Your BSL Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your British Sign Language skills before the interview. Being able to communicate confidently in BSL is crucial for this role, so practice your signs and be ready to demonstrate your proficiency.
✨Understand Deaf Culture
Familiarise yourself with Deaf culture and the significance of BSL within it. This will not only help you connect better with the team but also show that you respect and understand the community you’ll be working with.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work with deaf children and families. Highlight how you've supported their development and advocacy for BSL, as well as any training you've delivered. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and commitment to the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Come prepared with questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and how they measure success in supporting deaf children. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
