Job Description

Team Leader - Ofsted Registered Children's 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 looking to take the next step in your leadership journey?

We are seeking a passionate and skilled

Team Leader

to join our therapeutic children's residential home in Merstham. In this vital role, you'll provide strong, compassionate leadership to a dedicated team, guide and support young people through key stages of their lives, and help create a stable, nurturing environment where they can thrive.

This is more than just a job. It's a meaningful career opportunity where your leadership can make a lasting difference.

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 shifts per week, with meaningful rest time between shifts.

Competitive Salary:

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

Therapeutic Environment:

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

Values-Led Culture:

Be part of a trauma-informed team that puts children first and truly values your leadership and contribution.

Your Role as Team Leader

As Team Leader, you will set the standard for high-quality, child-centred care. You'll manage shifts effectively, provide guidance and direction to your team, and ensure young people feel safe, supported, and understood.

Your responsibilities will include:

Leading and managing shifts to ensure structure, safety, and consistency. Providing tailored, individualised care to meet each young person's needs. Supporting care planning, behaviour management, and risk assessments. Coordinating meaningful therapeutic and recreational activities. Mentoring, developing, and motivating team members. Maintaining accurate, compliant records in line with Ofsted requirements. Participating in reflective practice and specialist training to support your own 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 team leadership responsibilities. Strong safeguarding knowledge and a trauma-informed approach to care. Confident, calm leadership with excellent communication skills. Emotional resilience and the ability to respond effectively in challenging situations. 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 rota designed to support a healthy work-life balance. Comprehensive induction, ongoing therapeutic training, and reflective practice. Clear career progression pathways into senior management. A supportive and collaborative team culture where your leadership makes an impact. Pension scheme and additional staff benefits. The chance to make a meaningful and lasting difference in young people's lives.

Step Into Leadership - Apply Today

If you're ready to lead with purpose, inspire your team, and help young people build brighter futures, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today with your CV and a short cover letter telling us 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