Senior Residential Childcare Support Worker

Join Our Team as a Senior Residential Childcare Support Worker!

Company: Apple Orchard
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Salary: Up to £36,427.61 (including sleep-in shifts, based on performance and experience)
Specific Hours: Approx. 40 hours per week - shift pattern

Why Choose Us?

At Apple Orchard, we believe in creating a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, supported, and hopeful about their future. As a Senior Residential Support Worker, you will play a crucial role in transforming the lives of children who have faced trauma and challenges.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary with additional sleep-in allowances (£35 per night, typically one per week)
• Every other weekend off for a healthy work-life balance
• Fully funded qualifications and professional development opportunities
• Clear pathways for career progression and promotion
• Company pension and access to employee discounts and wellbeing programs

Your Role:

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is caring, resilient, and dedicated to making a lasting impact. You don’t need prior experience in residential childcare; if you have the right values and a willingness to learn, we will provide comprehensive training and support to help you thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead in meeting each young person's care, welfare, and development needs
• Plan engaging activities that promote learning, independence, and positive behavior
• Ensure compliance with legislation, policies, and Children's Homes Regulations
• Support and guide Residential Support Workers, ensuring adherence to policies and risk assessments
• Accurately record and report on young people's progress, including key events and life book updates
• Collaborate with placing authorities, parents/carers, and other professionals
• Assist with daily routines in the home, including domestic tasks when necessary
• Work with the Manager and team to uphold the home's ethos and address concerns appropriately
• Maintain clear, accurate, and non-judgmental written records

What We're Looking For:

Essential:

• A genuine passion for making a positive difference in children's lives
• A caring, resilient, and patient approach, with the ability to remain calm under pressure
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle, due to the rural location of some homes

Helpful but Not Essential:

• Experience in childcare, education, youth work, mental health, or similar settings
• Level 3 Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner/Health & Social Care qualification, or willingness to pursue it
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A team-focused attitude, good sense of humor, and emotional resilience
• Confidence in following procedures, writing reports, and contributing to care plans

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are compassionate, reliable, and eager to help children feel safe and empowered to reach their potential, we would love to hear from you!

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and we expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.