FAQs
Do I need to have a sign language qualification?
No. The vast majority of our staff joined the Academy without a sign language qualification. All staff are provided with the opportunity to train to up to BSL Level 3 and in some cases attainment of these qualifications are mandatory for the role. Staff do tend to find once they are fully immersed in the organisation they are able to pick up signs very quickly.
What opportunities are there for career development?
A number of our senior managers within the organisation have been promoted from within, as the skills and experiences required are very unique to this organisation. The fact we have managed to develop so many of our staff is a testament to the training we provide, not just in BSL but within other areas. We also welcome applications from senior or experienced people from other organisations who may be able to bring in new ideas – something that, as an organisation which is always looking to improve, we encourage.
I am interested in applying for a role with you, can I just send in a CV?
As much as we are delighted to receive a CV, we are unable to accept a CV as a form of application. All applicants must complete our standard application form in full and need to be able to demonstrate a full career history in months and years, with no unexplained gaps shown. This is part of our commitment to Safeguarding. We also find that by completing an application form, applicants are able to gear their response to what we are looking for, thus improving their likelihood of successfully securing employment.
What is the working environment like?
Within an environment such as ours no day is the same and every day brings in new and rewarding challenges. Our students are of paramount importance to the organisation and their safety comes first. Our staff are committed to this and work as part of a cohesive team, not only enhancing safety but also enabling our students to be the very best they can be and to give them independence. There are many different roles within the Academy, presenting opportunities for career enrichment for the right people.
What qualities do you look for in a candidate?
A commitment to our students and their safety. We are looking for team players who have the necessary qualities to demonstrate our Values of Committed, Respectful, Ambitious, Communicator, Caring and Positive.
Do we use Recruitment agencies?
The Academy has its own HR team and all of its recruitment is done in-house. We may occasionally choose to use an Agency for temporary positions, and in such instances we have a preferred suppliers list that we refer to.
What training does the Academy provide in relation to Safeguarding?
A Safeguarding induction is provided on a staff member’s first day as part of their induction. Additionally, all staff receive enhanced Safeguarding training, which is refreshed every two years. Staff are also required to complete Prevent training and refresh every two years. Senior Safeguarding Leads within the organisation are trained to Level 5 (Safeguarding Managers course).
All HR staff have received Safer Recruitment training and all managers frequently involved in recruitment will receive this training as well.
Do you have any guidelines for completing my application?
Please include two references, one of whom must have been your last employer. Your application must contain all the jobs you have performed with no unexplained gaps in career history, and dates presented must show months and years.
When completing the supporting statement, please gear it to what we require in the person specification and provide examples linked to your experience. When assessing applications we score against the person specification, so candidates who gear their supporting statement to this will receive a higher score and are more likely to be invited to interview.
If I am hired what happens next?
We are committed to making the on-boarding process as effective as possible, to ensure that the new staff member feels familiar with us and our culture prior to joining. Once an offer of employment has been made, we will complete the referencing process, get you to complete the enhanced DBS check and to take the on-line training in Safeguarding Level 2.
You will receive a comprehensive offer pack and contract of employment. We are open to future staff members coming in to visit us prior to them joining and our HR team is always open to take calls and questions from our future joiners.