Gemma Thrower

I am a compassionate, understanding and highly motivated care professional with a genuine passion for making a positive difference in the lives of children and young people. I am applying for Residential Childcare roles because I strongly believe my experience, values and personal qualities make me an excellent fit for this type of work. I have a natural ability to build positive, trusting relationships with children, helping them to feel safe, comfortable and valued, and I have seen this clearly in my current role at Haven, where I quickly form good bonds with children and adapt my approach to suit different personalities, behaviours and needs.

What stands out about me is that I combine a caring and empathetic nature with resilience, good judgement and a calm approach under pressure. I am kind, approachable and supportive and I also bring a positive personality and good sense of humour which helps me connect with young people in a genuine and encouraging way. I understand the importance of creating environments where children feel secure, respected and able to be themselves, while also maintaining clear professional boundaries, consistency and high standards of care.

My background in mental health support, SEN education and activity-based work has given me strong experience in supporting individuals with emotional, behavioural and additional needs. I understand that behaviour is often a form of communication, and I always aim to respond in a patient, non-judgemental and trauma-informed way. I recognise the importance of safeguarding, emotional regulation, positive role modelling and building trust over time, especially for children and young people who may have experienced instability, trauma or difficult life experiences.

In my current role as an Activity Instructor / Sports Coach at Haven, I work closely with children and families in a fast-paced environment where safety, engagement and adaptability are essential. I have developed strong confidence in encouraging participation, managing different behaviours appropriately, promoting inclusion and helping children enjoy positive experiences. Combined with my previous support work, this has strengthened my ability to promote positive outcomes, support wellbeing and contribute to stable, nurturing and child-centred environments.

I am now looking to build a long-term career in residential childcare, where I can use both my experience and my personality to make a real impact. I would bring warmth, professionalism, commitment and emotional maturity to the role, along with a strong work ethic and a genuine desire to help children feel safe, supported and able to thrive.

• My hobbies include sports, animals, and nature. I have been involved in team sports from a young age and am currently involved in a football team. When at university, I captained Manchester Metropolitan's Women's 1stTeam for 2 years and was also appointed as a social secretary. These roles strengthened my leadership, teamwork, and organisational skills, as I was responsible for motivating the team, coordinating matches and training, organising social events and ensuring the welfare of all players, boosting team morale and cohesion. Additionally, I volunteer with a charity called Homeless Hounds which is a rescue dog centre. I spent 5 months fostering dogs in my home. Since adopting my own dog, I now do my part by helping out in the kennels.

• Availability: I am available to work the required shifts. I am flexible and can accommodate varying hours as needed.
• Right to Work Documentation: I can provide all necessary right to work documentation as required.
• Driving Licence: Full UK driving licence
• Enhanced DBS check – Currently on the update service.
• Health & fitness – Physically fit and able to engage in demanding outdoor activities.