News and events

Makaton tutor, Ali, recently spent the afternoon delivering an ‘Introduction to Makaton’ workshop to Health & Social Care learners and staff. For learners looking to go into a career in the Health & Social Care industry, the ability to communicate effectively is not merely an advantage but a necessity in providing the best possible care and support for clients and patients. 

During the training, participants learned the core principles and elements of Makaton, including basic signs and symbols. Ali seamlessly integrated practical exercises and role-playing scenarios into the session, enabling attendees to put their newfound knowledge into practice immediately. This hands-on approach not only made the learning experience engaging but also helped cement the understanding of Makaton's application in real-life situations. 

The feedback from the learners was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to expand their communication skills and a newfound enthusiasm for incorporating Makaton into their daily routines. Participants eagerly embraced the chance to receive a certificate for attending Ali's training session, acknowledging the commitment they made to improving their communication skills. 

Lecturer, Louise, shared her appreciation for Ali's dedication and passion. She stated, "Thank you, Ali, for your dedication and passion. You have left a lasting impact on our learners, and I am confident that you will continue to inspire and empower others wherever you go." Louise's sentiments perfectly capture the sentiment of everyone who had the privilege of attending Ali's Introduction to Makaton. 

This  guest speaker forms part of the Health and Social Care Careers Excellence Hub. At Weston College our approach goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through industry speakers, workshops, employer projects, and more, we equip our learners with the real-world experiences and insights that set them apart in the competitive job market. It's not just about getting a job; it's about standing out from the crowd when they embark on their job searches.

Collaboration with industry professionals like Ali is undoubtedly crucial for students and professionals in the fields of Health & Social Care. These partnerships bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for the multifaceted challenges they will face in their future roles. In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare and social care, effective communication is paramount, and Ali's Introduction to Makaton has proven to be a valuable step in the right direction. 

Our workplace champions the right of staff to embrace all Afro-hairstyles. We acknowledge that Afro-textured hair is an important part of our Black employees’ racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious identities, and requires specific styling for hair health and maintenance. 

We celebrate Afro-textured hair worn in all styles including, but not limited to, afros, locs, twists, braids, cornrows, fades, hair straightened through the application of heat or chemicals, weaves, wigs, headscarves, and wraps. 

In this workplace, we recognise and celebrate our colleagues’ identities. We are a community built on an ethos of equality and respect where hair texture and style have no bearing on an employees ability to succeed. 

Notes: 

1. Race-based hair discrimination is illegal under the Equalities Act 2010. Workplaces have the right to enforce a dress code as long as it is fair and does not unduly discriminate against any staff. Policies and practices that prohibit hairstyles which are primarily used to maintain Afro-textured hair can lead to indirect discrimination. 
2. The Halo Code focuses on hair textures and styles most commonly associated with the Black community. The term Black has historically been used as a racial and political label. Here, we use it to refer to members of the African diaspora, including those with mixed heritage, who as a result of their ancestry have Afro-textured hair. 
3. The Halo Code is a gender neutral policy. 
4. In order to embody the sprit of The Halo Code, all staff are encouraged to familiarise themselves with different Afro-textured hairstyles and their cultural significance, and to avoid labelling Afro-textured hair with terms such as messy, unprofessional, or inappropriate. 
5. The Halo Code does not prevent workplaces from issuing additional guidance around Afro-texture hair and protective styles if applied consistently across all students and staff, including: 
6. That head wraps and scarves should reflect other elements of the uniform code such as the school’s colours. 
7. That hair be tied up for health and safety reasons, such as during sports, science labs, or to avoid trip hazards. 
8. That hair colour is reflective of wider school uniform policy. 

About the Halo Collective: 

We are an alliance of organisations and individuals working to create a future without hair discrimination, founded by young Black organisers from The Advocacy Academy. 

Race-based hair discrimination has been illegal in the UK since the the Equalities Act became law in 2010, and yet it still happens all the time. 

For too long, Black people have been told that our hair textures and hairstyles are inappropriate, unattractive, and unprofessional. We’ve been suspended from school, held back in our careers, and made to feel inferior by racist policies and attitudes. 

Together, we are fighting for the protection and celebration of Black hair and hairstyles. 

The Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) at NHS Somerset course, a lifeline for many seeking to revamp their professional lives, has been nothing short of a revelation for adult learner Mark. 

Mark's journey with the NHS SWAP course began when he was at the job centre. He stumbled upon a brochure about the program that piqued his interest. Mark recalls, "I was in the job centre and saw the NHS Swap scheme; I spoke to Sarah, and she made me feel at ease and that the NHS would not discriminate against me due to either my age or disability. Sarah convinced me it would be a great opportunity." 

The reassurance provided at the job centre played a pivotal role in Mark's decision to apply for the course. It highlights the inclusive nature of the NHS SWAP course, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances. 

Before embarking on this transformative journey, Mark was unemployed and had encountered discrimination in his previous job. The desire for a fresh start, a chance to rebuild his career, and escape discrimination became the driving force behind his decision to participate in the program. 

Mark's experience with the NHS SWAP course has been nothing short of amazing. He credits this success to the support and guidance he received throughout the program. He speaks highly of Niki and Caroline, who were instrumental in his learning experience. "Niki and Caroline were really helpful and supportive, and the content and timings were perfect," Mark says, reflecting the dedication and adaptability of the course coordinators. 

One of the primary goals of the NHS SWAP course is to equip learners with practical skills for their careers. Mark attests to the course's effectiveness in this regard, saying, "So many skills to list, however, I have used various skills in everyday life, and I have no doubt that with my new job, I will be able to utilize many more." The course serves as a springboard for developing new skills and honing existing ones.

When asked about the highlights of the NHS SWAP course, Mark finds it challenging to pinpoint just one. He enthusiastically praises the entire experience, emphasizing the engaging teaching methods, the support he received, and the interactive components like role-play and video presentations. 

Though the course was online, Mark did have his last day in person in Bridgwater which he thoroughly enjoyed. He also had high praise for the teaching and delivery of the course, noting that it was nothing short of superb. 

Mark's participation in the NHS SWAP course has already had a profound impact on his career aspirations. The program has boosted his confidence and motivation to secure a job. Excitingly, Mark reveals, "I'm delighted to say I have now received an offer from Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust." His story is a testament to the life-changing potential of this initiative. 

Mark enthusiastically recommends the NHS SWAP course. He emphasizes the world-class support provided throughout the program, stating, "There is nothing to lose but so very much to gain." Mark's journey, filled with renewed confidence and opportunities, stands as a beacon for those who have been out of work for a long time and need the support and encouragement to succeed. He encourages anyone considering the program to take the leap, as it offers much more than a chance to return to the workforce. 

Mark's story, filled with hope and newfound enthusiasm, is a testament to the remarkable potential of the NHS SWAP course. As Mark sums up, "I only wish I had known about the course earlier, I am so very happy and cannot thank everyone enough for all that this course has done for me." His experience underscores that the NHS SWAP course is a valuable resource for anyone seeking a career change or looking to re-enter the job market, proving that it is indeed the very best available for individuals in his position.