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 play a leading role in shaping brighter, safer futures for young people -- guiding your team, supporting recovery, and making a lasting difference in a therapeutic, child-centred environment.

This is more than a job. It's a chance to lead with empathy, develop your career, and create positive change every single day.

Why You'll Love This Role

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 meaningful rest and personal time between shifts.

Competitive Salary:

Earn 32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins), with clear pathways to progress into senior leadership.

Therapeutic Setting:

Based on the edge of the beautiful Surrey Hills, our home offers tranquil gardens and therapy animals to support each young person's healing journey.

Values-Led Team:

Join a supportive, trauma-informed team led by experienced professionals who put children's needs at the heart of everything we do.

Your Role as Senior Practitioner

In this pivotal role, you'll combine hands-on care with team leadership -- ensuring every child receives safe, nurturing, and consistent support.

You will:

Lead and manage shifts, maintaining structure and safety throughout the day Provide individualised residential care focused on each young person's needs Support care planning, behaviour management, and risk assessments Organise and deliver meaningful therapeutic and recreational activities Mentor, guide, and develop junior practitioners Maintain accurate, compliant records in line with Ofsted standards Continue your own growth through specialist training and reflective practice

What You'll Bring

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

What You'll Gain

32,500-36,300 per year (including sleep-ins) A rota designed to support work-life balance Comprehensive induction, ongoing therapeutic training, and reflective practice Career development pathways into senior management A supportive, collaborative team culture where your voice matters Pension scheme and additional staff benefits
Above all, you'll gain the satisfaction of knowing your leadership and care make a genuine difference in young lives.

Step into Leadership - Apply Today

If you're ready to build on your childcare experience, lead a passionate team, and help 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