What has your journey so far been like with Dixons Fazakerley Academy?

I have worked for the Academy for a couple of years, I am the Mountain Rescue Co-ordinator which is a SEND and Safeguarding base.

I started as a Level 2 TA and I have now progressed to a HLTA in a short time. I have been given opportunities to do different training and take on new responsibilities.

What do you like about working here?

I enjoy working with and supporting our students and being part of a team.

I currently work with the LFC Foundation in school and I am so proud of the progress students have made.

What are the students like to work with?

Working with our students is very rewarding, amazing to see them make so much progress.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of joining Dixons Fazakerley?

When working with young people you should not take yourself too seriously. It’s a hard job but very rewarding and enjoyable.

What support do you get?

My direct line managers have been very supportive while working here. I have been able to approach them with any problems I may have and help me with whatever I need to progress in my role.

What professional development and career opportunities do you think will be open in the future?

I would like to progress in my career with Dixons and will take any opportunity of CPD or courses to help build my career.

Can you give a brief overview of your time with the Academy?

I have been at Dixons Fazakerley Academy as the Operations Business Manager since September 2022. I have worked in Secondary education for 16 years.

What do you like about working here?

My favourite thing about working here is the interactions I have with staff and students. There is a real sense of team and we all work together to ensure the students are given the opportunities they deserve to live a happy and purposeful life.

How have you been developed professionally since joining Dixons Fazakerley?

In my short time here, I have already undertaken many training courses and attended half termly cross cutting meeting for OBM’s which has given me the opportunity to network with other colleagues doing my role and share best practise. I have also completed a Mindfulness course as part of our Centre for Growth.

What have you done that you are proud of whilst working at Dixons Fazakerley?

I have improved processes in HR, finance and using our online Health & Safety system. My proudest moment so far was when I achieved 99.9% compliance for Health & Safety.

What are the students like to work with?

I do not work directly with the students, but I do interact with them when I am doing duties. They are always polite with excellent manners. I enjoy watching them progress through school and developing their skills.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of joining Dixons Fazakerley?

I would say absolutely do it. It is a rewarding and supportive place to work with core values that align with my own.

What support do you get?

I have a line management meeting each week where I can discuss any barriers that I am encountering as well as monthly Coaching sessions. These sessions are with the Principal who always offers advice and support about the best way for me to navigate any tasks that I need guidance on.

Likewise, with 17 academies across the Northwest and Yorkshire, there are a plethora of colleagues that are available to ask questions to. One of my favourites things about working for Dixons is how all academies work together to achieve one common goal for our students.

What professional development and career opportunities do you think will be open in the future?

The Centre for Growth is an excellent resource that offers a wide range of professional opportunities for staff at Dixons from short courses to Apprenticeship opportunities. I am hoping to continue to make use of these opportunities in the future.