Job Description

Award winning care home looking for an Apprentice Activities Person. The position is 30 hours a week from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Vicarage Court is a large 80 bed nursing home next to Pontefract racecourse. We provide care for general nursing residents, young physically disabled (YPD), residential and residential dementia.

We are looking for an Apprentice Activities Person to work along side our experienced Activities Co-ordinator.

Job Title:

Apprentice Activities Coordinator

Location:

Vicarage Court Care Home, North Featherstone

Reports to:

Manager & Head of Activities

Contract:

Fixed-Term Apprenticeship (Typically 12-18 months)

Salary:

National Apprenticeship Wage (or above, depending on experience)

Working Hours:

30 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Company Overview

Vicarage Court Care Home is a compassionate, high-quality care home dedicated to providing exceptional residential and dementia care for our residents. We believe in creating a vibrant, homely, and stimulating environment where every individual can thrive, maintain their dignity, and enjoy a fulfilling life. We are committed to investing in our people and are excited to offer this apprenticeship opportunity to a passionate individual looking to build a career in health and social care.

Role Purpose

As an Apprentice Activities Coordinator at Vicarage Court, you will support the planning, delivery, and evaluation of a diverse and person-centred activities programme during our core weekday hours. You will work as part of the wellbeing team to enhance the physical, mental, social, and emotional wellbeing of our residents. This apprenticeship combines hands-on experience with formal off-the-job training (leading to a recognised qualification such as the Level 2 or 3 in Health and Social Care or the Level 3 in Activities Coordination), allowing you to earn while you learn in a rewarding environment.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

Under the guidance and supervision of the Manager, you will:

1. Programme Development & Delivery:

Assist in researching, planning, and organising a varied Monday-to-Friday schedule of group and 1:1 activities tailored to residents' interests, abilities, and life histories. Help facilitate daytime activities such as: arts & crafts, music sessions, gentle exercise, gardening clubs, reminiscence therapy, sensory stimulation, games, and pre-lunch socials. Support in organising and setting up for special weekday events and celebrations. Encourage resident participation during your shifts, providing gentle motivation and support.

2. Person-Centred Engagement:

Build meaningful, trusting relationships with residents, taking time to understand their hobbies, past careers, and preferences during your daily interactions. Contribute to creating and updating personalised 'Life Story' profiles to inform individualised activity plans. Spend quality time with residents, offering companionship and conversation.

3. Administrative Support:

Help maintain accurate daily records of resident participation and preferences. Assist with creating posters and notices to advertise the weekly activities programme. Support the management of activity resources and materials.

4. Resource Management:

Set up and tidy away activity resources and spaces for the day's schedule. Ensure equipment is clean, safe, and stored correctly at the end of each day. Contribute creative ideas for new resources and activities.

5. Team Collaboration & Communication:

Work closely with the day care team to integrate activities into the daily rhythm of the home. Participate in team handovers and meetings as required within your hours. Communicate effectively with residents' families during visiting hours, updating them on their loved one's engagement.

6. Apprenticeship Learning:

Diligently complete all required coursework, assignments, and assessments for your apprenticeship qualification. Apply theoretical knowledge gained from training directly into your practice within the home. Actively participate in mentoring sessions and progress reviews with your line manager and training provider.

Person Specification

Essential:

A genuine passion for improving the lives of older people, particularly those living with dementia or physical frailty. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Empathy, patience, kindness, and a cheerful, positive attitude. Creativity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to try new ideas. Good basic literacy and numeracy skills for record-keeping. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and also using own initiative. Reliability and punctuality for the core 10 am - 4 pm schedule, Monday to Friday. A willingness to undergo a full Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, which will be paid for by the employer.

Desirable:

Any previous experience in a care setting, volunteering, or community work. A personal interest in a relevant area (e.g., music, art, sports, gardening). Basic IT skills (e.g., Word, email).

What We Offer

A funded apprenticeship

leading to a nationally recognised qualification. A stable and family-friendly Monday-to-Friday daytime schedule. Comprehensive induction programme and mandatory training. Continuous support from an experienced mentor and dedicated training provider. A friendly, supportive working environment at Vicarage Court where your ideas are valued. Opportunity for permanent employment upon successful completion of the apprenticeship. Company pension scheme. Employee assistance programme. The immense personal satisfaction of making a real difference every day.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter explaining why you are interested in this apprenticeship and what qualities you would bring to the role to js@calsacare.co.uk

Vicarage Court Care Home is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and residents.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Apprenticeship

Pay: From 7.55 per hour

Work Location: In person