Job Description

Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner - Therapeutic Children's Residential Services

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 looking to take the next step in your career?
We're seeking a dedicated and skilled Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner to join our therapeutic children's residential home in Merstham. In this pivotal role, you'll provide strong, compassionate leadership, support young people through key stages in their lives, and help create a safe, nurturing environment where they can thrive.

This is more than a job - it's a meaningful career opportunity where your leadership has lasting impact.

Why Join Us

Balanced Shift Pattern:

Structured long-day and sleep-in rota (10:00am-11:00pm, sleep-in, 7:00am-10:30am), typically 2-3 shifts per week, with meaningful rest between shifts.

Competitive Salary:

32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins), with clear progression opportunities into senior management.

Therapeutic Environment:

Our home sits on the edge of the Surrey Hills, surrounded by gardens and therapy animals to support young people's emotional wellbeing.

Values-Led Culture:

Be part of a trauma-informed team that places children at the heart of everything we do and values your leadership.
Your Role as Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner

As part of the leadership team, you will set the standard for high-quality, child-centred care. You'll lead shifts effectively, guide and motivate your team, and ensure young people feel safe, supported and understood.

Key responsibilities include:

Leading and managing shifts to provide structure, safety and consistency. Delivering personalised care to meet each young person's individual needs. Supporting care planning, behaviour management and risk assessments. Coordinating therapeutic and recreational activities. Mentoring and developing team members to build confidence and capability. Maintaining accurate records in line with Ofsted requirements. Participating in reflective practice and specialist training to support your development.

What We're Looking For

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

What You'll Gain

32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins). A rota designed to support a healthy work-life balance. Comprehensive induction, ongoing therapeutic training and reflective practice. Clear career progression pathways into senior management roles. A supportive and collaborative team culture where your leadership makes a difference. Pension scheme and additional staff benefits. The chance to make a lasting and meaningful difference in young people's lives.

Step Into Leadership - Apply Today

If you're ready to lead with purpose, inspire others and help young people build brighter futures, 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