Communication Support Worker (Trainee) - The Deaf Academy
- East Devon, Devon
- Multiple Terms
- Communication Support Workers | CSW1 - CSW2: £22,846 - £23,552
Help Deaf young people thrive. Build your skills. Shape brighter futures.
Are you passionate about supporting Deaf young people with additional and complex needs to achieve their potential in education, employment and everyday life? Do you hold an accredited BSL Level 2 qualification, have a desire to develop your signing skills, and want to build a rewarding career in communication support?
We’re looking for a motivated and enthusiastic Trainee Communication Support Worker to join our team and help Deaf learners build the confidence, independence and skills they need to succeed.
This is an exciting opportunity to turn your passion for communication and inclusion into a meaningful career. With dedicated mentoring, structured training and hands-on experience, you’ll develop the knowledge, qualifications and practical skills needed to progress towards becoming a qualified Communication Support Worker.
Working alongside experienced Communication Support Workers, Teachers of the Deaf and Job Coaches, you’ll play a vital role in helping Deaf learners overcome barriers, access opportunities and achieve their goals.
If you’re ready to learn, grow and make a lasting difference, we’d love to hear from you.
What you'll be doing
Every day will bring opportunities to support learners, develop your skills and celebrate their progress.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting learning and achievement by working with Deaf learners on Level 1 and Level 2 programmes.
- Facilitating effective communication across educational, social and workplace settings, helping learners participate fully and confidently.
- Making learning accessible through sign language, communication clarification, note-taking and reinforcement of learning.
- Opening doors to new experiences by accompanying learners on work placements, supported internships, educational visits and enrichment activities.
- Building confidence and independence by encouraging learners to develop self-advocacy skills and take ownership of their futures.
- Working collaboratively with experienced Communication Support Workers, Teachers of the Deaf and Job Coaches to provide inclusive, learner-centred support.
- Contributing to learner success by participating in progress reviews and supporting educational planning.
- Investing in your own development through mentoring, reflective practice, structured training and ongoing professional guidance.
What we're looking for
You don't need to be a fully qualified Communication Support Worker to apply. We're looking for someone with the right foundations, a genuine commitment to Deaf learners and the enthusiasm to develop professionally.
Essential requirements:
- An accredited BSL Level 2 qualification or equivalent.
- Actively working towards BSL Level 3, with a commitment to further developing your signing skills.
- GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above, or equivalent qualifications.
- Experience of communicating with Deaf people through employment, volunteering, education or lived experience.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive, supportive relationships.
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people.
- A willingness to learn, reflect on your practice and embrace opportunities for professional development.
Your career development pathway
A career with a future — and the support to get there.
We’re committed to helping you build the skills and confidence to progress towards becoming a qualified Communication Support Worker. You’ll benefit from a structured development pathway that combines practical experience with recognised qualifications and professional support.
Your development will include:
Achieving BSL Level 3 to strengthen your signing skills and communication abilities.
Working towards a recognised professional qualification, such as the Signature Level 3 Award in Professional Communication Support for Deaf Learners, or an equivalent recognised Communication Support qualification.
Developing specialist knowledge and skills in communication support, Deaf awareness, educational inclusion and supported internships.
Learning from experienced colleagues through dedicated mentoring, supervision and guidance from our CSW+ team.
Building professional confidence through practical experience, reflective practice and continuing professional development.
You'll be supported to take each step of your journey, developing your expertise while making a positive difference to the learners you work with.
Why join us?
This is more than a training opportunity. It's your chance to build a career where your skills, encouragement and commitment can genuinely change lives.
You'll help Deaf young people with additional and complex neds access education, explore employment opportunities, develop independence and work towards brighter futures, while building a rewarding profession of your own.
What we offer:
- A CPD program geared to your specific training needs
- Sponsorship to achieve qualifications in British Sign Language up to Level 3
- Group Personal Pension including 8% employer contribution
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
- Life Assurance
- Free onsite parking
- Cycle to work scheme
- Long-term career development within a forward thinking and innovative organisation
- Subsidised lunches for £2.50
- 15% discount on membership with LED
Safeguarding Information
The Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young adults; as such an enhanced DBS check is required.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore applicants are required to declare any cautions, convictions, reprimands and final warnings that are not protected (i.e. that are not filtered out) as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013 and 2020).
The Academy is a Disability Committed Employer in promoting diversity and inclusion for all its students and staff. The Academy is also signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant in supporting ex-service personnel in recognising their skills and experience.
Ready to take the next step in your career?
If you're passionate about communication, inclusion and helping young people reach their potential, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Apply today and start your journey towards becoming a qualified Communication Support Worker.
For further information and to apply, please click here: Communication Support Worker - Trainee | SAMpeople Recruit
Closing Date: 16 November 2026 at 09:00.
Interview Date: To be confirmed.
Job Details
- OrganisationOther Organisations
- Work LocationEast DevonDevon
- Work Postcode
EX8 2AU
- Reference
AC7165
- Occupational GroupSocial Care & HealthCommunications, Marketing & PR
- Salary Details
Communication Support Workers | CSW1 - CSW2: £22,846 - £23,552
- Job TermPermanent
- Appointment TypeFull TimeTerm Time
- Hours
35 hours per week (term time only) 39 weeks per annum
- Closing Date
16/11/2026
- DBS Check Required
Yes