Kath

Head of Campus DSL

I have been working as Head of Grove Campus for nearly 2 years now. I have been teaching since 1988 and was thinking of retiring from my role as Director of Mathematics when I saw and applied for this job. I can honestly say I absolutely love my job and it has reignited a flame inside me. It's not easy and there is rarely a moment to sit quietly and reflect within the working day however it is incredibly rewarding. The driving force is our young people who have many and varied challenges within their lives and the desire to want the best for them. Our pupils are loyal and recognise that we care and keep them safe. Many initially will not want to attend but through mutual respect and having high aspirations they soon become settled and happy. I have a strong, caring team around me within the campus, leadership and across COBS which makes things achievable. Not thinking of retiring anymore!

Emma

Teacher

My journey at COBS has been varied and rewarding. Although at times challenging, the support from leadership is unwavering. I work in an environment dedicated to allowing each staff member to thrive. Leadership recognise that education is an ever-evolving field and the professional development opportunities and ongoing training initiatives that the school offers are exceptional. Even in the most challenging of times, the well-being of the staff and students is paramount. I am never afraid of approaching colleagues for help and support or to bounce new ideas around. I honestly feel like I have a 'work family' who I can trust. I feel immensely fortunate to be part of a school that places such emphasis on creating a supportive environment with fantastic development opportunities. These factors are evident in the enthusiasm of the staff and the engagement of the students. I look forward to continuing this journey of learning and development with COBS alongside my dedicated colleagues.

Murdock

Deputy Head of Campus

Working for City of Birmingham School has been an amazing journey for me. I initially started on agency as a PE Teacher and eventually got myself a permanent role. During my five years here I have been given ample opportunities to develop and progress. I have been involved in the leading of the PE department and completed a leadership coaching programme that enabled me to hone my skills as a middle leader and eventually secure my role as Deputy Head of Campus. Working at COBS is a challenge for sure, but if you want to make a real impact and work with some of the hardest to reach young people in Birmingham, then this is the place to be. The Senior Management Team have supported me with high quality mentoring and coaching throughout my time here which has given me great direction and a progressive career pathway. I feel valued and supported at COBS and I am here for the long run and hope to see others join our cause.

Louise

Teacher

I have been lucky enough to work at City of Birmingham School for the last three years as a Humanities teacher. I started as agency staff before moving into a permanent position. The induction programme allowed me to get to know key people across the school and gave me all the key information and support needed to succeed in my role. The school ensures an excellent level of safeguarding training as part of the induction and throughout the academic year. This alongside the fantastic SEND training I have received from both internal and external professionals allows me to effectively support all the young people. I have particularly found it helpful that the SEND team meet with us regularly and support with any specific needs we might have.

Although we work in various campuses across the city we still do feel like one school. I get to regularly meet with the different teams I work with and if needed they are always available to be contacted and support. I have had the opportunity to take part in a number of subject specific CPD courses run by lead organisations from those specific areas. It has also been great to work with other people from different campuses on our whole school inset days. We have had some great nights out as a whole staff too, which has given us a chance to meet up with everyone in a less formal setting.

Everyone at COB’s has made me feel welcome, hence why I was very happy when a permanent position became available. Although some days are difficult and challenging, for me I remember why I came into education in the first place and I can genuinely see the difference I make each day.

Ayla Young

School Business Manager

I started working for COBS in April 2009 as a Centre Assistant and throughout the years I moved up the career ladder in various admin support roles within the school such as Area Administrator, Data Manager and finally School Business Manager role. COBS has given me plenty of opportunities to develop myself through various training opportunities including Leadership courses, support and network within a strong and supportive Admin Team and encouragement by the Leadership Team to go for my next steps over the years. Working for COBS has always been a very rewarding experience for me and always made me proud to make a difference to young people. I have always felt valued and appreciated by the Senior Leadership Team and I have recently been given the opportunity to gain an SBM qualification. Staff at COBS are so amazing and supportive. I have genuinely made friends for life over the years who I still work with.