Residential Care Worker – Jess

How long have you worked at the Deaf Academy? 

I joined the Academy in November 2020. It was a complete change in career for me as I had previously worked as a hairdresser. I wanted to do something new, something that was worthwhile, something that could make a real impact. 

What do you enjoy about working at the Deaf Academy? 

I love my role as there are so many opportunities available. I particularly like working hands-on with the students, helping build relationships and making it feel like their home. I enjoy working here as I know I’m making a difference to the students’ lives. I like the fact that my role is very different to a normal job. It is about having fun with the students and making sure that they are living their life to their full potential. We get up to lots of activities during the evenings and every day is different. It can vary from walks along the beach, going to the cinema, to playing games inside or even just relaxing for the evening.  

How have you found the training?

I studied Level 1 and 2 British Sign Language (BSL) out of my own interest at home and I really enjoyed it. I am hoping to achieve my Level 3 qualification in BSL with the Academy. I love how we can communicate without using our voices and it is another step in building accessibility. The fact that I learnt BSL and I use it to communicate is amazing.  

What do you enjoy the most in your role?

I really enjoy being there for the students. Helping them achieve what they want and just being able to guide them and to be really helping to make a difference. Since being here I have seen so many students grow in confidence and that’s what I enjoy the most.