Job Description

Senior Support Worker - Residential Childcare

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 take on a vital leadership role -- guiding your team, supporting recovery, and helping to shape brighter, safer futures for young people in our care.

This is more than just a job. It's a chance to lead with empathy, grow your career, and make a lasting difference every single day in a therapeutic, child-centred environment.

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 valuable time to rest and recharge between shifts.

Competitive Salary:

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

Therapeutic Setting:

Our home, set on the edge of the stunning Surrey Hills, provides a calm, nurturing environment with 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 place children's wellbeing and development at the heart of everything we do.

Your Role as Senior Practitioner

In this pivotal role, you'll combine hands-on childcare with strong leadership, ensuring safe, consistent, and nurturing care for every young person in our home.

You will:

Lead and manage shifts, ensuring structured routines and a safe environment Provide tailored residential care focused on individual needs Support care planning, behaviour management, and risk assessments Organise and lead therapeutic and recreational activities Mentor, guide, and develop junior practitioners Maintain accurate records in line with Ofsted requirements Continue your own professional growth through 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 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 to work 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 shift model designed for work-life balance Comprehensive induction, specialist therapeutic training, and reflective practice Clear career progression routes into senior management A supportive, collaborative team culture where your contribution is valued Pension scheme and additional staff benefits
Above all, you'll gain the deep satisfaction of knowing your leadership, empathy, and care are helping to transform young lives.

Step into Leadership - Apply Today

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