Tyson Bunby
Tyson Bunby, 42, has just completed his first year as a trainee neighbourhood officer through The Housing Academy, the assessment centre set up by Genesis Housing Group, Metropolitan Housing Trust London and Servite Homes. The Housing Academy is approved as a CIH assessment centre and commissioned Stanmore College to deliver the learning programme.
Tyson was a carer for five years and had begun training as a financial advisor when he saw the recruitment adverts for The Housing Academy and decided to change direction.
The course has given him a head start in housing and provided a general overview of the sector through studies at Stanmore College and practical work at Metropolitan Housing Trust London.
“It’s given me the confidence to work with our residents through my knowledge of housing law and practice”, he said.
“A lack of education makes it problematic for some people to utilise their skills. The Housing Academy has recognised that there is an untapped pool of people who have transferable skills, which, with the right training and support, can be put to good use in housing”, Tyson added.
The two-year traineeship programme and college course covers the role of a housing officer, housing law, regulation and personal competencies. Students can also specialise in various areas of work including anti-social behaviour, rent arrears, repairs, housing policy and regeneration.
“The Housing Academy provides excellent training in social housing, enabling trainees to provide a holistic service of the highest standard to our customers. I am delighted that the overall objective of the Housing Academy has been achieved. Our aim was to bring people into the housing sector, train and provide them with the required skills, so they can meet the expectations our customers deserve”, said Scott Black, Housing Operations Director at Metropolitan Housing Trust (London).
Most of trainees who completed the first year certificate have now started the second year of the course leading to the Diploma at Lewisham College.