About the Role
This is a rare opportunity to join a brand-new children’s residential home from the ground up and be named on the Ofsted application as the incoming Registered Manager, with full support and structured mentoring.
We’re looking for a capable and motivated Deputy Manager who is ready to take the next step in their career, stepping into the Registered Manager role through a supported development plan. You’ll be mentored by a highly experienced Responsible Individual (RI) and supported day-to-day by a strong Senior Children’s Support Worker, giving you the space and confidence to grow into full registration while helping shape the home’s foundation.
This is the ideal opportunity for an ambitious senior practitioner or deputy looking to fast-track into home management with full backing.
Key Responsibilities
Step-Up Leadership
- Lead the operational setup of the home alongside the RI and wider team.
- Build your confidence and competence to meet Ofsted’s Registered Manager requirements.
- Drive a positive, trauma-informed culture from the start, modelled on therapeutic care principles.
- Take responsibility for safeguarding, staff supervision, and day-to-day running of the home.
Care Quality & Compliance
- Ensure care plans, risk assessments, and support strategies are personalised, effective, and regularly reviewed.
- Promote a culture of safeguarding, inclusion, and accountability at all times.
- Assist with quality assurance processes, audits, and internal monitoring to prepare for inspection readiness.
Team & Child-Centred Leadership
- Support and develop care staff with supervision, coaching, and on-shift leadership.
- Be actively involved in recruitment, induction, and rota management.
- Foster a home where children feel safe, valued, and empowered to achieve their goals.
Who We’re Looking For
Essential:
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent)
- Minimum 2 years' experience in a children’s residential home, ideally at Senior/Deputy level
- Ready to step up and register as the Ofsted Registered Manager (with support)
- Strong working knowledge of safeguarding and children’s home standards
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills
Desirable:
- Working toward or willing to undertake the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare
- Experience with children presenting with EBD, trauma, or complex needs
- Confident leading a team and working collaboratively with external professionals