Overview
The Hawthorns School is recruiting Childcare Officers for its brand new Residential provision. We are looking for enthusiastic, reflective team players to join our school community. This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of The Hawthorns team; no experience is required, as we will provide full training and support you in the next steps of your career.
Thank you for your interest in this post. The Hawthorns' residential provision is a new and exciting addition to The Hawthorns School. The school opened in January 2023 for autistic children and is now in a permanent purpose-built building. The school roll is currently 70 for this academic year.
Position details
* Role: Residential Team Member (Careworker) for a new residential provision
* Age range of pupils: 7–16 years with autism
* Location: The Hawthorns House, a brand-new, purpose-built building adjacent to the school site
* Start date: Immediate
* Contract type: Part-time
* Contract term: Permanent
* Application close: 31/12/2025 Midday
* Interviews: Date to be confirmed
Responsibilities
* Work as part of a team and be self-led and motivated in a fast-paced, supportive environment
* Care for and support pupils aged 7–16 with autism, fostering secure relationships and positive, trusting interactions
* Contribute to, facilitate and review plans for each child, reflecting their ECHPs, in partnership with the Head of Residential Care
* Help provide a safe, supportive environment and support pupils to exceed expectations
* Support self-regulation, confidence and effective communication
Qualifications and requirements
* No experience required; full training and support provided
* Caring, fair and nurturing approach
* Ability to work as part of a team and independently as needed
* Willingness to work with children aged 7–16 with autism
* Commitment to safeguarding and safer recruitment; all appointments subject to checks and clearances
About the School
The Hawthorns School opened in January 2023 for children with autism and is now in a purpose-built school in Chelmsford. The provision focuses on social communication, emotional regulation and relationship-building, alongside a broad curriculum. Pupils will be aged 7–16 and will have an EHCP; ten residential places are available Monday to Thursday each week. These places will be managed by the school and enhance the daytime curriculum.
We are part of the SEAX Trust and share its ethos, vision and values with other schools in the Trust.
Safeguarding
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Contacts
For informal discussion, please email jen.tinsley@thehawthornsschool.com to arrange a suitable time. The Hawthorns School, Thornhurst Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 2XT. Telephone: 01245 207607. Email: admin@thehawthornsschool.com
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