Information / Selection Day

If you are interested in this lipspeaking course there will be an online interview. This will help you to:

• Find out more about lipspeaking
• Learn more about the course
• Decide whether you think you have the sort of qualities necessary to become a lipspeaker
• Observe a lipspeaker in action
• Do some lipspeaking yourself

Applicants will also be assessed on their suitability for the course . After the Information interview the results of the selection process will be sent by post. The decision of the Selection Panel will be final.

Entry qualifications to the lipspeaking course

Academic Qualifications

Applicants are expected to have a passed minimum of 5 GCSEs (A – C) or GCEs (including English Language) and 2 A levels or equivalent academic or vocational qualifications. A higher education qualification is usually very helpful, however, exceptions may be made for candidates who do not have these qualifications but who can demonstrate that they have the potential to become Lipspeakers. Evidence of qualifications (i.e. original certificates) must be brought to the Information/Selection Day. Qualities and Attributes Selection will be based on the Skills CFA NOS standards.

The selectors will be looking for: Good unaided hearing; good breath control; potentially naturally clear speech with and without voice; a good memory; a good command of English; an expressive face; no facial jewellery; no visible facial hair such as a beard, moustache or designer stubble; no visible facial piercings or other distractions; no visible tattoos; clothes which do not distract etc.; a professional attitude; the ability to remain calm under pressure; a pleasant, warm, friendly and approachable manner and a practical and intelligent approach to solving problems.

Eligibility to work in the UK

Passports must be brought to the selection day and those chosen to train as Lipspeakers will be required to have or obtain a current DBS (formerly CRB) check.

Knowledge about communicating with deaf people and understanding deafness

This is essential for all good lipspeakers. Candidates are expected to have successfully achieved the Signature Level 1 Award in Deaf Awareness and Communication (DAC1) or equivalent.

The DAC1 course is run by a number of colleges and other organisations. However, if you cannot find a course yourself please contact Dilys Palin because if there are enough learners we may be able to run one for people attending the lipspeaking training course.