MATRAVERS School has congratulated sixth formers Hannah Aldous and Connie Brown who have recently gained jobs as playworkers with Barnardo’s Short Breaks Activity Scheme.
The clubs are run for children between the ages of eight and 18 years, all of whom have a disability. Hannah and Connie travelled to Chippenham for their interviews and the feedback was that both girls had answered the questions well and with confidence. The interviews procedure is tough, but some of the children have quite complex needs, and Barnardo’s have to be sure they get the right staff to work with them. It is a big commitment but at the same time it is very rewarding one.
Hannah and Connie are following in the footsteps of Shane Roy, former head boy, Rhiannon Dally, and Linda Harbour who in 2013 were the first Matravers students to be employed by Barnardo’s Short Breaks. Abbie Brewer interviewed and was offered a job in 2015. These students worked throughout their two years in the sixth form and today, all of them return to work during their university breaks. Sixth former, Hannah Dilena was recruited in 2016 and is already a valuable and very popular member of the team.
Abbie Brewer, who is now studying philosophy and ethics & childhood and youth Studies at Liverpool Hope University, says ‘Working for Barnardo’s is an extremely rewarding job. I always go home with a smile on my face, no matter how tough the day has been, as I know I have made a difference’.
Rhiannon Dally, studying early years education at Bath Spa said, ‘Working for Barnardo’s is a whole new experience and one that you instantly love. You get such a rewarding feel and have fun during your time there. The staff are all welcoming and so friendly and everyone is there to support each other no matter what the situation.’ These sentiments are echoed by Linda Harbour, who is studying fashion at Carmarthen School of Art, who said, “I love working for Barnardo’s. The children get so much out of the Saturday and holiday clubs and that, for me, is the best part of being a play worker.”
