New College Worcester is a residential school and college for children and young people aged 11 to 19 who are blind or vision impaired. Every student at NCW has a tailored programme, carefully planned and delivered to meet their needs according to their EHCP in three key areas: academic achievement, independent living skills and involvement in extracurricular activities.

The Independent Person is a vital and rewarding role, providing a trusted, independent channel for students to discuss personal issues, concerns, or problems within the college environment.

Responsibilities

1. Availability & Accessibility

• Be accessible to students and respond as soon as practically possible via their preferred method of communication.
• Ensure students know how to contact the Independent Person and feel comfortable doing so.
• Maintain a regular, visible presence at the College (at least once per month).

2. Student Support

• Create an environment where students feel safe, respected, and confident in raising concerns.
• Communicate effectively and listen empathetically.
• Offer support and guidance on personal issues or safeguarding matters.

3. Monitoring & Safeguarding

• Build positive, trusting relationships with students.
• Remain observant to signs of distress and respond appropriately in line with safeguarding policies.
• Maintain professional boundaries while ensuring students feel supported.

4. Reporting & Supervision

• Operate independently, but report safeguarding concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead or senior leadership.
• Provide constructive feedback to improve student support systems.
• Receive safeguarding training and support from the College.

5. Flexibility & Collaboration

• Adapt to the different needs of individual students.
• Work collaboratively with other Independent Persons when necessary.

Safeguarding Children

New College Worcester is fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of students. The post holder must adhere to NCW’s safeguarding policies and promote the welfare of children and young people.

Equal Opportunities

NCW is committed to promoting equal opportunities and preventing discrimination, both in service delivery and employment. Applicants must demonstrate their commitment to this ethos.

Person Specification

The successful candidate will be selected based on the criteria below. Please address each point in your application, providing relevant examples.

Other Information

Annual Review

This job description will be reviewed annually and may be updated following consultation with the post holder. It is not an exhaustive list of duties.

Pre-employment Checks

This appointment is a Regulated Activity and subject to:

• Two satisfactory and verified references
• Enhanced DBS clearance and registration
• Medical clearance
• A six-month probationary period

This document should be read alongside the NCW Statement of Purpose, Equal Opportunities Policy, and other relevant policies.

• Please view the NCW Safeguarding Statement document
• Please view the JD Independent person document