At MacIntyre, we believe that experience in care is not always necessary to make an incredible impact on someone's life. If you have the right personal qualities and share our values, you are likely to be a great fit.
We caught up with Callum from our No Limits Team in East Midlands who was a bike technician before joining our team in 2016.
Could you introduce yourself?
My name is Callum, and I am a Programme Manager and Positive Behaviour Support Lead for MacIntyre. At present, I am in a split role and overseeing the No Limits, East Midlands provision as the Programme Manager as well as overseeing Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) for the whole of No Limits.
How long have you worked at MacIntyre?
I started the role in August 2016 – so just hitting the five year anniversary.
So, tell us about your background?
At school, I developed a real passion for history. After finishing sixth form I went to Staffordshire University to study an undergraduate Modern History degree, with the aim of one day becoming a secondary school history teacher. I graduated in 2014 and began to explore the possibility of completing a PGCE.
I would say I ‘fell into the trap’ of needing to work – especially to cover bills and start saving for the PGCE, so I took a job at Halfords as a bike technician.
I spent over two years with Halfords and enjoyed spending time with customers as well as the practicality of the work. I had no experience of working with bikes initially so taught myself a new skill in the process, the work was tough but rewarding (as I’m sure anyone in retail will relate!).
After two years I was becoming impatient with myself due to the need of getting back into teaching so I began to look elsewhere. That’s when I saw an advert for a ‘Community Teaching Assistant’ with MacIntyre and the rest, as they say, is history!
So you’ve never worked in a health and social care setting?
No, never. I had some experience of caring for relatives/family members and helping out with the family.
What interested you about joining MacIntyre?
I wanted to make a difference to the people we support's lives and teach them new skills. Prior to my interview with No Limits, I researched the company on the internet and what struck me was how clear the vision, DNA and values of MacIntyre were.
I also took time to learn the history of MacIntyre and how it had evolved over the years before focusing on what MacIntyre No Limits is and how it works. I saw MacIntyre No Limits as my first step on the metaphorical teaching ladder and what a journey it has been so far.
What do you love most about your role?
I love teaching the learners valuable new skills that enhance or benefit their lives.
There is nothing more satisfying than being a part of the learner’s journey and having the opportunity to deliver bespoke, person-centred teaching which often isn’t achieved in mainstream education.
As I have progressed within the company into managerial roles, I love developing staff; finding their motivators and upskilling. I want to make a difference to our staff and make them feel valued.
What is the training and support like for newcomers?
I was supported extremely well by management and colleagues. I know it’s a bit cliché but MacIntyre No Limits in East Midlands has a family feel to it and I was immediately made to feel welcomed and part of the team.
Management supported me through the induction process faultlessly, having identified my previous lack of knowledge in the sector, the Personal Development Plan (PDP) was an important tool to support me in familiarising myself with all aspects of the role.
The training provided was great, I felt as though I was eased into the role as opposed to being left to my own devices.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of changing direction and starting a career with MacIntyre?
I would say take a chance and go for it! Your background and experience are irrelevant, all you need is passion, empathy and determination to make a difference.
Join our team
We are seeking caring and passionate individuals to help support people to live as independently as possible, whilst providing the care and attention they need to live a life that makes sense to them.
To find out more about the current vacancies available, visit our careers page.
