In this episode of the Skillsminer podcast, Dinah and Kirsty speak with Dawn Newman from CACHE Alumni at NCFE, exploring the evolution of CACHE, the importance of community in the care and education sectors, and the challenges faced by professionals in articulating their skills and value.


Dawn shares insights from her diverse career journey, emphasizing the significance of vocational work and the need for greater recognition of the skills within the care sector.


The conversation also touches on social mobility, mentorship, and the aspirations for the future of the CACHE sector, advocating for a shift in how professionals perceive and communicate their contributions.


Takeaways
Dawn Newman discusses her multifaceted role at CACHE Alumni.CACHE is a community for professionals in care, health, and education.Professionals in the care sector often struggle to articulate their skills.The UK culture tends to downplay self-promotion and achievements.Vocational work is a calling, not a fallback option.The care sector is highly skilled and requires specific qualifications.Class and professional identity can impact self-perception.Dawn's career journey highlights the importance of adaptability.Mentorship plays a crucial role in professional development.There is a need for greater recognition of vocational roles in society.
Vocational Work: More Than Just a JobNavigating Identity in the Care Sector


Keywords:
CACHE Alumni, vocational education, care sector, community support, professional development, social mobility, career pathways, mentorship, early years education, healthcare.


"I get to do a little bit of everything.""They don't necessarily mean somebody who has an NCFE cash level 3 qualification.""They could give you 20 reasons that little Jimmy is amazing."