At a Glance
- Tasks: Train as a Visual Impairment Rehabilitation Specialist while supporting individuals with sight loss.
- Company: Join West Northamptonshire Council and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, gain a recognised qualification, and enjoy a full-time permanent role.
- Other info: Flexible study and work balance with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Empower people with visual impairments to live independently and confidently.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and relevant Level 3 qualifications or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 28716 - 30251 £ per year.
Are you looking to develop your career while making a meaningful difference to the lives of people living with sight loss? We are offering an exciting development opportunity to train as a Visual Impairment Rehabilitation Specialist (VRS) through the FdSc Vision Rehabilitation Specialist (Adults) programme at Birmingham City University.
What will you be doing?
- Combining academic study with practical experience, this apprenticeship role will equip you with the specialist knowledge and skills needed to support people with visual impairments to maintain their independence, confidence, and quality of life.
- Attend university through a combination of weekly study and block learning.
- Complete placements and work‑based learning requirements.
- Balance academic study alongside your substantive role.
About You
We are looking for someone who is passionate about supporting people to live independently and achieve positive outcomes. You will have a genuine interest in working with people living with visual impairment and be committed to making a positive difference to their quality of life. The successful applicant will be empathetic, patient and person‑centred in their approach, with the ability to build positive relationships and support individuals to maximise their independence and confidence. You will be motivated to learn and develop specialist knowledge and skills, embracing the opportunity to undertake a professional qualification and build a career within this specialist area of Adult Social Care.
Essential Entry Requirements (Birmingham City University)
- GCSE English Language or Literature at Grade C/4 or above (or recognised Level 2 equivalent, or successful completion of the BCU equivalency test).
- Plus One Of The Following:
- Level 3 NVQ, Diploma, or equivalent qualification (full award).
- Two or more A Levels (minimum DD / 48 UCAS points) or a BTEC National Diploma.
- Level 2 NVQ or Diploma (full award), plus successful completion of a written assessment.
- Five GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above, plus successful completion of a written assessment.
- Significant and relevant experience within the disability sector, plus successful completion of a written assessment.
Mature applicants without formal qualifications must be able to demonstrate relevant personal or professional experience within a health or social care setting, together with the ability to study successfully at Foundation Degree level.
Post‑Qualification Expectations
- You will move into a qualified post within the Visual Impairment Team.
- You will commit to working within the team for a minimum of two years following qualification.
- If this commitment is not met, you may be required to repay some or all of the course fees in accordance with organisational policy.
Things to Consider Before Applying
- Your ability to balance study, assignments, and your current workload.
- Your willingness to commit to a two‑year training programme.
- The requirement to travel to university, placements, and training opportunities.
- Your long‑term interest in supporting people with visual impairments.
- The expectation to work within the Visual Impairment Team for at least two years after qualifying.
We Are Keen To Hear From Individuals Who
- Are passionate about promoting independence, wellbeing, and prevention.
- Have experience working with adults in social care, therapy, rehabilitation, or related services.
- Are motivated to learn and develop specialist skills.
- Can balance study commitments alongside their current role.
- Demonstrate excellent communication, organisation, and problem‑solving skills.
- Are committed to improving outcomes for people living with visual impairment.
The successful applicant must be able to travel independently throughout Northamptonshire to undertake home visits, assessments, training, and placements. Therefore, a full driving licence and access to a vehicle is desirable/essential for the role.
Why Apply?
- Gain a nationally recognised specialist qualification.
- Develop professional knowledge and specialist rehabilitation skills.
- Support people with visual impairments to live independently and confidently.
- Build a rewarding career in a specialist area of Adult Social Care.
- Play a key role in strengthening and shaping our Visual Impairment Service.
- Progress into a qualified Visual Impairment Rehabilitation Officer role within West Northamptonshire Council.
Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this vacancy. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore subject to an enhanced DBS certificate. It is also a regulated activity and will be subject to a Children and Adults Barred List check.
West Northamptonshire Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Benefits
- Salary: £28,716 - £30,251 per annum.
- Working hours: 37 per week.
- Contract type: Full time, permanent with university placement.
- Location: Northampton, United Kingdom.
Application Information
Closing date: 14 July 2026.
Rehabilitation Specialist Visual Impairment (Unqualified) in Northampton employer: The Guildhall Northampton
West Northamptonshire Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth. As a Licensing Enforcement Officer, you will benefit from competitive salary packages, ongoing training opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in your community through effective regulation and enforcement of licensing laws.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rehabilitation Specialist Visual Impairment (Unqualified) in Northampton
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We think you need these skills to ace Rehabilitation Specialist Visual Impairment (Unqualified) in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:When applying for an apprenticeship in social work, make sure to express your genuine passion for helping others. Use your cover letter to tell a story about why you’re drawn to this field and how your personal experiences have shaped your desire to pursue a career in social work. This personal touch can make a big difference!
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Tailor Your CV to Social Work:Craft your CV with a focus on social work-related skills and experiences. Include sections for relevant qualifications, such as any certifications, training, or workshops you've attended. Make sure to highlight your ability to work in diverse teams and support vulnerable individuals, all of which are essential in this field.
Be Ready to Learn:In your application, emphasise your enthusiasm for learning and growing within the social work sector. As an apprentice, it’s important for us at StudySmarter to see that you are eager to absorb knowledge and develop your skills. Let us know how this apprenticeship aligns with your career goals in social work.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Guildhall Northampton
✨Show Your Passion for Helping People
In social work, empathy and a genuine desire to help others are crucial. When chatting with The Guildhall Northampton, make sure to convey your passion for community support and social justice. Share any relevant experiences, even volunteer work, where you've made a difference.
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As you're aiming for an apprenticeship, your eagerness to learn is a huge asset! Be open about what you hope to gain from the role at The Guildhall Northampton and how you're excited to develop your skills. This shows them that you're not just there to fill a spot but genuinely enthusiastic about growing in the field.
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