At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide communication support to d/Deaf and Hearing Impaired learners using BSL and other methods.
- Company: Further Education College in Mansfield with a focus on inclusivity.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, term-time working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and boost their confidence and independence.
- Qualifications: GCSEs, BSL Level 2, and a passion for supporting diverse learners.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Mansfield
Hours: 30 hours per week (flexible)
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only (37.6 weeks)
About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Communication Support Worker to join our Further Education College in Mansfield. You will be part of a specialist team providing a wide and varied range of communication support to d/Deaf and Hearing Impaired learners, enabling them to fully access their learning programmes and all aspects of college life. This is a highly rewarding role where your work will directly impact students' independence, confidence, and academic success.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide communication support to d/Deaf and Hearing Impaired learners using:
- British Sign Language (BSL)
- Signed Supported English (SSE)
- Notetaking
- Lipspeaking
- Adapt communication methods to meet individual learning styles and needs
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to provide flexible and responsive support, including:
- 2:1 support in classroom environments
- Combined communication approaches (e.g., signing and notetaking simultaneously)
- Modify and relay information to ensure accessibility across a range of curriculum areas
- Support learners with additional Learning Difficulties and Disabilities (LLD)
- Promote equality, inclusion, and full participation in college activities
Flexibility Requirements
Flexibility is essential for this role. You may be required to:
- Support learners in residential settings, which may include overnight stays
- Provide support during evening or Saturday courses
Essential Requirements
- 3 GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above), including English Language
- Maths Level 2 (or willingness to work towards)
- Signature Level 2 in British Sign Language (BSL)
- Willingness to achieve within 2 years:
- Signature Level 3 / NVQ Level 3 in BSL
- BTEC/Edexcel Communication Support Worker for Deaf People qualification (or willingness to work towards)
- Signature Level 2 in Notetaking / Lipspeaking / Deafblind Communication (or willingness to work towards)
About You
- Have a strong understanding of Deaf culture
- Be passionate about supporting learners with diverse needs
- Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Be adaptable, proactive, and a strong team player
- Be committed to continuous professional development
Benefits
- Membership of the Scottish Widows Group Personal Pension Plan
- Term-time working pattern supporting work-life balance
- Opportunity to develop specialist skills in Deaf education support
- Be part of a supportive and collaborative team
If you are committed to making a difference in the lives of d/Deaf learners and have the skills and enthusiasm to thrive in a dynamic educational environment, we would love to hear from you.
Vision Talent Solutions is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to providing an inclusive and professional service for all.
Communication Support worker - BSL employer: Protocol
Join our Further Education College in Mansfield as a Communication Support Worker, where you will be part of a dedicated team making a meaningful impact on the lives of d/Deaf and Hearing Impaired learners. We offer a flexible working environment, term-time hours for a better work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development in Deaf education support, all within a supportive and inclusive culture that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communication Support worker - BSL
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those working with d/Deaf and Hearing Impaired learners. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you have experience with BSL or supporting learners, consider creating a short video demonstrating your communication techniques. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and open-minded! The role requires adaptability, so be ready to discuss how you've successfully supported diverse learners in the past. Share specific examples that highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from passionate candidates. Make sure to tailor your application to showcase your commitment to supporting d/Deaf learners and your understanding of Deaf culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Communication Support worker - BSL
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with BSL and supporting d/Deaf learners. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for Deaf culture!
Showcase Your Flexibility:Since flexibility is key for this role, mention any experiences where you've adapted to different situations or supported learners in various settings. We love seeing candidates who can think on their feet and adjust their approach as needed.
Highlight Teamwork Skills:Collaboration is a big part of what we do at StudySmarter. Share examples of how you’ve worked with others to provide support or achieve a common goal. This will show us that you’re a team player who can thrive in our environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol
✨Know Your BSL Inside Out
Make sure you're well-versed in British Sign Language and any other communication methods mentioned in the job description. Brush up on your skills and be ready to demonstrate your proficiency during the interview, as this will show your commitment to supporting d/Deaf learners.
✨Showcase Your Understanding of Deaf Culture
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of Deaf culture and how it influences your approach to communication support. This is crucial for the role, so think of examples from your experience that highlight your understanding and respect for the community.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with learners. Think about past experiences where you've adapted your communication style or provided support in challenging circumstances, and be ready to share these stories.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Flexibility
Since collaboration is key in this role, come prepared to discuss how you've worked effectively in a team before. Highlight your adaptability and willingness to take on various roles, especially in flexible settings like residential support or evening courses.
