Communication support worker

In this role you could:

• work out what will help students learn
•  help students communicate
•  support learners by lipspeaking and taking notes
•  interpret between spoken English and sign language
•  support learners to become more independent
•  provide training for other staff and students

• sensitivity and understanding
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to enjoy working with other people
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be flexible and open to change
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• knowledge of psychology
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• working towards this role
• training with a professional body

With experience you could:

• manage a sensory impairment or disability service
•  become a sign language interpreter
•  become a disability adviser
•  train to be a sign language teacher

You'll also find some opportunities to use sign language in theatre, television, multimedia production and courts of law. Signers are sometimes needed to interpret in interviews as well.