ESOL & Languages
Pauline Desch, Head of Faculty
Why did you join BAES?
I joined BAES over 30 years ago as a teacher because I wanted to have an opportunity to use my creative skills and to have a positive impact on adult learners. I believe that education transforms lives. This transformation for learners could be small such as improved confidence and awareness of their strengths or a commitment to developing work relevant skills to enable them to gain meaningful employment.
I have a keen interest in personal and professional development, and I’m fascinated by the dynamics of learning. Education is empowering and I am happy to make a small contribution to enabling learners to take their next steps.
Tell us about your day - hours you work, who are your direct reports
The ESOL and Languages team consists of 70 teachers and 6 Programme Managers. I am proud to work with a really supportive and adaptable team of people who work together to achieve a common purpose.
How has BAES supported your career development?
Working for BAES has given me some great opportunities to acquire and enhance my skills as a manager. I feel BAES understands my needs and I feel fully supported in my professional advancement. BAES offers an inclusive business culture which builds a positive working environment.
During my time with BAES, I have had many opportunities to work in different teams, work on projects and gain new skills through training and coaching, develop new programmes, contribute to improvements in processes and also to work collaboratively with colleagues from different departments within Birmingham City Council.
What values in the workplace are important to you?
For me it’s really important to value and recognise the experience that learners and colleagues bring to BAES. By sharing this experience and different perspectives BAES has a clear sense of direction with inbuilt agility and an ability to respond to change. BAES has the shared purpose of improving and enriching the lives of Birmingham citizens to empower and enable them to maximise opportunities for employment and personal development.
What's the best thing about working at BAES in Birmingham City Council?
Working for BAES within Birmingham City Council provides opportunities to make a real difference for local residents. BAES provides a valuable and safe place for Birmingham citizens to return to education, gain valuable new skills and knowledge, gain or re-gain personal confidence and sometimes awakens a sense of ambition in our learners.
