Academi Gofal Gwynedd

The programme is a unique opportunity for anyone to develop a career in the Care sector at Cyngor Gwynedd. You will gain hands-on experiences and have a variety of opportunities to develop whilst being mentored by experts in the field. There will be continuous opportunities to develop your skills to ensure a long and successful career within Cyngor Gwynedd’s Care Services. 

If you've ever considered making a difference by supporting people in their communities Academi Gofal Gwynedd is perfect for you.

There are many benefits when you join the Academi: 

• Earning a salary whilst learning
• Receiving experienced support and assistance
• Completing valued qualifications 
• Developing clear career paths
• Working within a Welsh environment.
• You can choose to be part of the Local Government Pension Scheme
• You will benefit from a wide range of free internal and external training and development opportunities.

The benefits are updated regularly, follow the link for more information:

The benefits of working for us

• Successful candidates will need a GCSE grade C or equivalent in either Welsh or English
• It is desirable for successful candidates to have a GCSE Mathematics grade C or above or be willing to work towards the qualification by the end of the 3^rd year of the programme.  You’ll receive full support throughout your time on the programme to achieve this.
• Welsh is the main language of Cyngor Gwynedd. You are required to be able to communicate confidently through the medium of Welsh or show a willingness to take advantage of opportunities to develop your language skills. Training is offered to learn Welsh and to further develop your Welsh language skills, across all levels.
• We welcome applications from anyone who is motivated, has a kind and caring nature and wants to make a difference to the lives of others.

You will start at point 3 of the pay scale. Your salary will rise according to qualifications, experience and responsibilities.

Our pay scale can be viewed by following the below link –

View Cyngor Gwynedd Salary Scales 

Is there an age limit to apply?
There is no upper age limit, but you do need to be 17 or over to apply for these posts.  

I don’t drive, can I join the Academi?
Yes, we offer 10 free driving lessons to help get you on the road.    

Although every attempt will be made to place you within a service near your home, you may need to be able to travel to various places of work within the county.

I already have a degree, am I eligible?
Yes – we accept applications from those who have already been through higher education, however each applicant will have to follow the Academi’s learning framework.

Do I have to pay education fees back?
All courses and qualifications you are enrolled on as part of Academi Gofal Gwynedd are paid for in full by the Council. 

What if I do not want to do all the qualifications?
Throughout your time on the Academi Gofal you will be supported to hit your key milestones ensuring you can progress on to the next qualification.  If you decide at one of these key milestones that you do not wish to progress any further, then we will support you to look for a full-time job within the Care sector relevant to the qualification level gained.

Why do I need an All Wales Induction Framework for Health and Social Care (AWIF)?
 

You need to have completed the All-Wales Induction Framework for Health and Social Care (AWIF) as part of the registration to work as a Social Care worker in Wales.

Induction framework for health and social care

What if I do not pass a level?
You will be supported by a mentor at your work placement as well as being supported by the Academi’s Co-ordinator.  Your mentors will support you every step of the way to ensure you reach your full potential.

Do you support people with disabilities?
Yes, we are an equal opportunities employer, with support available to help you achieve your career goals.

What is the duration of the programme?
The length of the programme will depend on the career path you decide to take.

Am I guaranteed a job at the end of the programme?
Every possible effort will be made to ensure that every successful candidate has an opportunity to accept a job at the end of the programme.

Do you need experience in the specific field before being able to apply for the position?
No, no prior experience is required. You will need to demonstrate that you are a sensitive, honest, and reliable person with the ability to act in a manner that respects the rights of the individuals at all times and demonstrates a willingness to develop.