An interview with Gabriella Arcidiacono, Registered Manager at Austen Cottage Children's Home in Coventry...
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your journey to becoming the Registered Manager at Austen Cottage Children's Home?
A: Certainly! My journey in the field of childcare has been quite a diverse one. I initially started my career in a nursery setting and gradually worked my way up. I began in residential childcare, where I gained valuable experience. Over the years, I've had the privilege of working with a wide range of children, each with their unique needs and challenges. From children who've experienced trauma to those with high needs and even younger children, I've encountered a variety of situations that have enriched my understanding of the field.
Q: What makes Austen Cottage Children's Home stand out in terms of its approach to childcare?
A: Austen Cottage Children's Home is truly exceptional due to our dedicated and passionate staff team. We believe in fairness, having fun, and maintaining clear boundaries with the children. Our focus is on building strong relationships and consistency, which in turn fosters trust with the children in our care. It genuinely feels like a family here, and this family atmosphere is instrumental in creating that sense of trust and security for our children.
Q: Could you tell us more about the qualifications and training of your staff at Austen Cottage Children's Home?
A: Our staff at Austen Cottage Children's Home are highly qualified in residential childcare. We regularly undergo training in a wide range of topics, including dealing with bereavement. Some of our team members also have a background in working with children on the autism spectrum (ASC). We take pride in the diversity and knowledge base of our team, with some of our members actively working towards achieving level 5 qualifications in leadership and management.
Q: How do you tailor outcomes for each child at Austen Cottage Children's Home?
A: We understand that each child comes from a unique background and has individual needs. At Austen Cottage, we make a concerted effort to tailor outcomes specifically to each child's circumstances. We believe in giving the children a voice and involving them in decisions about their lives. It's about empowering them and ensuring they have a say in their own lives.
Q: What motivates you in your role as Registered Manager?
A: My passion lies in spending time with the children and providing them with the support they need. I believe in supporting children from the ground up and building genuine relationships with them. At Austen Cottage, we've managed to create a happy and welcoming environment filled with laughter. What motivates me is knowing that everyone here supports one another, creating a space where both the staff and the children can thrive.
Austen Cottage in Coventry offers a safe and caring setting for children and young people aged between nine and 17 years who may have experienced social, emotional and mental health challenges.
At Austen, we strongly believe that every child and young person deserves the opportunity to achieve their ambitions. Building self-esteem is at the heart of our mission because we know that confident individuals are more likely to reach their full potential.
Sound interesting? Get in contact today for placement information on 0800 024 6985 or [email protected]
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