Job Description

Senior Children's Support Worker - Ofsted Registered Residential Home

Location:

Merstham, Surrey

Contract:

Full-time, Permanent

Salary:

32,500 - 36,300 per year (including 60 per night sleep-in payments)

Lead with Purpose. Build Futures. Shape Change.

Are you an experienced childcare professional ready to take the next step in your career?

We're looking for a committed and compassionate Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner to join our team in Merstham. In this leadership role, you'll guide and support a dedicated team, help young people build trust and stability, and make a lasting difference in their lives.

This is more than just a job. It's an opportunity to lead with empathy, grow your career, and create meaningful change every single day.

Why This Role Could Be Right for You

Balanced Shift Pattern:

Work a structured long-day/sleep-in rota (10:00am-11:00pm, sleep-in, 7:00am-10:30am) typically 2-3 times per week, with dedicated rest time between shifts.

Competitive Salary:

Earn 32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins), with clear progression routes into senior leadership roles.

Therapeutic Setting:

Our home sits on the edge of the beautiful Surrey Hills, surrounded by tranquil gardens and therapy animals to support each young person's recovery and growth.

Values-Led Team:

Join an experienced, trauma-informed team where children's needs always come first and your leadership is truly valued.

Your role as Senior Practitioner

As a Senior Support Worker, you'll play a key part in creating a safe, nurturing, and structured environment where young people can thrive. You'll lead by example and support your team to deliver high-quality, child-centred care.

Your responsibilities will include:

Leading and managing shifts to ensure structure, safety, and consistency. Providing individualised care that meets each young person's needs. Supporting care planning, behaviour management, and risk assessments. Organising meaningful therapeutic and recreational activities. Mentoring, guiding, and developing junior practitioners. Maintaining accurate, compliant records in line with Ofsted standards. Engaging in reflective practice and specialist training to support your professional growth.

What we're Looking For

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) - essential. Proven experience in residential childcare, ideally with senior or shift-leading responsibilities. Strong safeguarding knowledge and a trauma-informed approach. Confident leadership skills with clear, calm communication. Emotional resilience and the ability to remain composed under pressure. Full UK driving licence - essential. Flexibility to work the long-day/sleep-in shift pattern (2-3 shifts per week).

What you'll gain

32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins). A balanced rota designed to support your work-life balance. Comprehensive induction, ongoing therapeutic training, and reflective practice. Clear pathways for career progression into senior management roles. A supportive and collaborative team culture where your input matters. Pension scheme and additional staff benefits. The reward of making a real, lasting difference in young lives.

Step Into Leadership - Apply Today

If you're ready to build on your childcare experience, lead with purpose, and help young people thrive, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today with your CV and a short cover letter explaining why this opportunity inspires you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 32,500.00-36,300.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company pension On-site parking Referral programme
Experience:

Residential Childcare: 2 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

UK Driving Licence (required) NVQ Level 3 in Residential Childcare (preferred)
Work Location: In person