After graduating in 2005 I worked as a Physiotherapist in a local hospital in my home town of Bytom, Poland. I joined Rowden House School as a Residential Support Worker in May 2007, the position was being advertised in one of my local newspapers. I saw it as an opportunity to explore other professional routes and I felt comfortable joining an English speaking country as I had lived in America for 2 years.

In the beginning it was a learning curve for me, I had to learn the role whilst also adjusting to English culture. At times the language barrier was difficult, but staff at Rowden House School were very welcoming and I now feel settled in Herefordshire.

I didn’t have any experience in a similar job role and I hadn’t dealt with challenging behaviour before but all the necessary training was provided by Rowden, which I really enjoyed and I also had a good support network within the home if it ever became difficult.

Based on the reputation and hard work I had put in at Rowden since joining, I was promoted to Shift Leader. I stayed in this role for 5 years and I enjoyed the challenge of the additional responsibility, whilst also working closely with the young people.

In 2012 the opportunity of Home Manager came up and I was successful in my application and I have now been in this position for 4 years. Rowden also funded my NVQ Level 5 in management which I completed last year.

I have learnt a lot during my journey at Rowden House School and would recommend SENAD to anyone who was looking to develop a career in social care.