At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a profoundly Deaf pupil by translating lessons into British Sign Language.
- Company: Join The Prince of Wales School, a vibrant and inclusive community in Dorchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development, ongoing training, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's education while promoting Deaf culture and inclusion.
- Qualifications: BSL Level 3 required; Level 6 preferred, with a passion for supporting diverse learners.
- Other info: Part-time role (12 hours/week) during term time, with opportunities to influence school-wide practices.
Communication Support Worker (BSL) – The Prince of Wales School
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Communication Support Worker (BSL) – The Prince of Wales School
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Join to apply for the Communication Support Worker (BSL) – The Prince of Wales School role at Dorset Council UK
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Join Our Team at The Prince of Wales School – Where Every Voice Matters
At The Prince of Wales School in Dorchester, we pride ourselves on being a truly inclusive, values-driven community. Rooted in the belief that every child deserves to thrive, we are a forward-thinking mainstream primary with a proud record of supporting pupils with complex needs, including those who are Deaf.
We are currently seeking a part-time (12 hours per week, afternoons only) Communication Support Worker (CSW) with BSL qualifications (minimum Level 3, ideally Level 6) to work 1:1 with a Year 2 pupil who is profoundly Deaf. This is a fixed term role working 39 weeks (term time plus inset days) Dorset Grade 9 Pay award pending.
This is a meaningful role, with the potential to transform a child’s experience of education—both academically and socially—while also shaping our whole school culture to become even more Deaf-aware and inclusive.
What You Will Gain
Joining our team means joining a close-knit school with a collaborative ethos and a deep commitment to professional development. You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Make a lasting impact on a young learner’s access to language, learning, and relationships.
- Influence whole-school practice by upskilling staff in BSL and promoting Deaf-friendly strategies.
- Be part of a school that champions equity, respect, and the celebration of diversity through our #InspiredToLearn approach.
- Access ongoing training opportunities, local networks and multi-agency working to enrich your practice and career.
You will be supported by a passionate SENCO, an experienced and nurturing class team and the wider leadership team who place high value on inclusion and child-centred practice.
About The Role
As our Communication Support Worker, you will:
- Translate classroom talk and learning into British Sign Language, providing live access to teaching across the curriculum.
- Support the child’s receptive and expressive signing within a rich, spoken language environment.
- Modify and clarify language for better understanding and emotional wellbeing.
- Foster a strong sense of Deaf identity and promote emotional literacy through positive, respectful interactions.
- Work with teaching staff, parents, and external agencies to ensure consistent and holistic support.
Beyond this individual support, you will play a key role in helping our school become a model of inclusive practice. This includes running a signing club, offering informal training to staff, and contributing to whole-school celebration of Deaf culture.
Our Vision for Inclusion
This role is central to our commitment to creating a school where all pupils can:
- Be heard
- Be included
- Be celebrated for who they are
We believe that Deaf pupils should not only be able to access the curriculum—but should feel valued and empowered to thrive. As a CSW in our school, you won’t just be supporting a pupil—you’ll be shaping the culture of an entire community.
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Communication Support Worker (BSL) - The Prince of Wales School employer: Dorset Council UK
Contact Detail:
Dorset Council UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Communication Support Worker (BSL) - The Prince of Wales School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of Deaf pupils and the role of a Communication Support Worker. Understanding the challenges they face will help you demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive environment during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of special education and BSL. Attend local events or workshops related to Deaf education, as this can provide valuable insights and connections that may enhance your application and show your dedication to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you would implement Deaf-friendly strategies in a classroom setting. Think about practical examples of how you could support not just the individual pupil but also contribute to the wider school culture of inclusivity.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for promoting Deaf culture and identity. Be ready to share ideas on how you would engage the whole school community in celebrating diversity and fostering a positive environment for Deaf students.
We think you need these skills to ace Communication Support Worker (BSL) - The Prince of Wales School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific responsibilities and qualifications required for the Communication Support Worker (BSL) position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these requirements.
Showcase Your BSL Skills: Since this role requires British Sign Language proficiency, make sure to emphasise your BSL qualifications and any relevant experience in your CV and cover letter. Provide examples of how you've used BSL in educational settings or with Deaf individuals.
Highlight Inclusivity Experience: The Prince of Wales School values inclusivity. Share any past experiences where you have supported diverse learners or contributed to creating an inclusive environment. This could include training staff, running clubs, or working with external agencies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for supporting Deaf pupils and your commitment to fostering a positive learning environment. Use specific examples to illustrate your points and explain why you want to work at The Prince of Wales School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dorset Council UK
✨Showcase Your BSL Skills
Make sure to demonstrate your British Sign Language skills during the interview. You might be asked to interpret a short passage or engage in a conversation using BSL, so practice beforehand to ensure you feel confident.
✨Understand the School's Values
Familiarise yourself with The Prince of Wales School's commitment to inclusivity and Deaf culture. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to creating a supportive environment for all pupils.
✨Prepare Examples of Past Experiences
Think of specific examples from your previous work or volunteer experiences where you successfully supported a child with complex needs. Highlight your ability to adapt communication styles and foster positive relationships.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask the interviewers about their approach to inclusion and support for Deaf pupils. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can make a meaningful impact.