Job Description

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? As a

Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner

, you'll step into a key leadership role where every decision you make helps to build brighter, safer futures for young people.

This is not just a job--it's an opportunity to lead with empathy, grow your career, and make a lasting difference in a therapeutic, child-centred environment.

Why This Role Stands Out

Balanced Shift Pattern:

Work a long-day/sleep-in rota (10:00am-11:00pm, sleep-in, 7:00am-10:30am), typically 2-3 times per week--giving you extended periods of rest and personal time between shifts.

Competitive Salary:

Earn 32,500-36,300 annually (including sleep-ins), with clear routes for progression into more senior leadership.

Therapeutic Environment:

Our home is set on the edge of the Surrey Hills, with tranquil gardens and therapy animals to support young people's healing.

A Values-Led Team:

Guided by experienced leaders, we are committed to trauma-informed practice and a culture where children always come first.
Your Role as Senior Practitioner

As a Senior Practitioner, you'll combine hands-on childcare with leadership responsibilities, helping to set the tone for safe, nurturing care while guiding your team to deliver the highest standards.

You'll:

Lead and manage shifts, ensuring structured, safe daily routines Provide consistent, child-focused residential care tailored to individual needs Support care planning, behaviour management, and risk assessments Organise and deliver therapeutic and recreational activities Mentor, guide, and develop junior practitioners Maintain accurate records in line with Ofsted requirements Continue your own professional development with specialist training
What You'll Bring

Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) - essential Solid experience in residential childcare, ideally with shift-lead or senior responsibilities Strong safeguarding knowledge and trauma-informed practice Confident leadership with excellent communication skills Emotional resilience and a calm, grounded approach Full UK driving licence - essential Flexibility for the long-day/sleep-in shift model (2-3 per week)
What You'll Gain

32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins) A shift model designed with work-life balance in mind Full induction plus continuous therapeutic training and reflective practice Career progression opportunities into senior leadership A supportive, collaborative team culture where your contribution is valued Pension scheme and additional staff benefits Above all: the chance to make a genuine difference, every single day
Step Into Leadership - Apply Today

If you're ready to build on your childcare experience, lead a dedicated team, and play a vital role in helping young people thrive, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now 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