Job Description

Job Purpose

Lockwood Residences aims to provide outstanding tailored care to children and young people aged 7 to 17, on a short and long-term basis. As such we are seeking a positive, diligent, child centred registered manager looking to be a part of the home they've always envisaged.

Lockwood Residences is a new to the market high end children's home that is due to open its doors in early 2026. The company requires a manager to support and develop its opening as well as the ongoing provision of care, meeting regulatory standards.

If this is something you would love to be part of come and join us at Lockwood Residences where we aim to provide the best care to children to allow them to fulfil their potential.

Job responsibilities

The Registered Manager is legally responsible for the day-to-day running of the children's home, ensuring compliance with the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and the Quality Standards outlined by Ofsted.

The role requires strong leadership to ensure that children and young people are safeguarded, cared for, and supported to achieve their potential in a safe, nurturing, and positive environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership & Governance

Provide positive, effective leadership, management, and accountability for the operation of the home. Ensure the Statement of Purpose is regularly reviewed, up to date, and accurately reflects the services provided. Maintain registration with Ofsted and comply with all regulatory requirements. Lead the preparation for Ofsted inspections and ensure compliance with action plans and recommendations. Ensure adequate and robust governance structures are in place to provide assurance.

Safeguarding & Child Protection

Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for the home, ensuring robust safeguarding procedures are in place. Ensure all staff understand and implement safeguarding policies and procedures. Promote the welfare of children, responding promptly to any safeguarding concerns in line with statutory guidance. Maintain effective working relationships with placing authorities, Local Safeguarding Children's Partnerships, and external agencies.

Quality of Care

Ensure each child has a detailed, personalised care plan and placement plan in line with their needs. Promote children's rights, individuality, and participation in decisions affecting their lives. Ensure care is child-centred, trauma-informed, and supports positive emotional, educational, and social outcomes. Oversee health, education, and social development planning, ensuring access to appropriate services.

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure compliance with the Children's Homes Regulations 2015. Ensure all notifications are made to Ofsted, local authorities, and other agencies as required. Maintain accurate records in line with regulations, Regulation 44 independent visits. Conduct regular monitoring, audits, and reviews to ensure continuous improvement. Lead regulatory inspection preparedness.

Staffing & Human Resources

Recruit, train, develop, and retain a skilled and motivated staff team. Ensure staff are appropriately qualified and supported to achieve the Level 3/4 Diploma in Residential Childcare. Provide regular supervision, appraisal, and performance/conduct management in line with regulations. Provide supportive leadership to allow staff to flourish in their roles. Promote a culture of professional reflection, continuous learning, and development.

Finance & Resource Management

Manage the home's budget effectively, ensuring resources are used responsibly. Ensure the home environment is safe, welcoming, and well-maintained. Oversee compliance with health and safety, fire safety, and environmental health requirements. Reduce wasteful practices to enhance financial sustainability.

Partnership Working

Develop and maintain effective relationships with local authorities, Ofsted, schools, health services, and other agencies. Actively participate in placement planning meetings, reviews, and multi-agency safeguarding meetings. Represent the home and organisation in a professional and positive manner.

Person Specification

Qualifications

(Essential)

Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or equivalent). Level 3 Children's Residential qualification (as a minimum).

Experience

(Essential)

Significant residential childcare experience, including at least two years in a supervisory/management capacity. Demonstrable experience of working with children and young people with complex behavioural and medical needs, trauma, or challenging behaviour. Strong knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and regulatory compliance. Proven leadership and staff management experience.

Knowledge & Skills

In-depth understanding of the Children's Homes Regulations 2015. Ability to lead and motivate a team to deliver high-quality, consistent care. Strong organisational, administrative, and record-keeping skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively with external agencies and professionals.

Personal Attributes

Child-focused, resilient, and committed to achieving positive outcomes for children. Honest, reliable, and able to demonstrate integrity and accountability. Reflective practitioner with a commitment to continuous improvement. Able to work flexibly, including evenings, weekends, and on-call as required.

Other Requirements

Enhanced DBS check. Registration with Ofsted as the Registered Manager. Full driving licence and access to a vehicle. (Category B licence desirable).

No recruitment agencies please.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 50,000.00-70,000.00 per year

Application question(s):

Do you have a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare? Do you have at least a Level 3 Children's Residential qualification ?
Experience:

children's residential care home management: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person