Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner – Make Every Day Count
Location: Merstham, Surrey
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Empower Young Lives – One Moment, One Breakthrough, One Future at a Time
Are you a passionate childcare professional looking to step up into a senior role? Do you want your leadership, empathy, and commitment to directly shape brighter futures for young people?
We're searching for a Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner to join our dedicated, child-centred team at a warm, well-established Ofsted-registered home on the edge of the stunning Surrey Hills. Every shift here is more than just a day's work—it's a chance to make a lasting impact.
About the Home
Our nurturing residential home supports up to four children aged 10–18 who cannot live with their families. Nestled in a peaceful natural setting, it's designed as a safe, calming place where healing and growth can happen.
From thoughtful, trauma-informed care to the comfort of therapy animals (including our much-loved bunnies), everything we do is about creating connection and long-term positive change. You'll be part of a values-led team guided by experienced, supportive leaders who share your dedication to making a difference.
Your Role
As a Senior Residential Childcare Practitioner, you'll play a leading role in the home—supporting your team, setting high standards, and creating stability for young people. You'll help shape an environment where trust is built, confidence grows, and lives are rebuilt.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide consistent, child-centred care tailored to each young person's needs
* Lead and manage shifts for smooth, safe daily operations
* Support care planning, risk assessments, and behaviour strategies
* Deliver therapeutic and recreational activities that foster wellbeing
* Maintain accurate records in line with Ofsted requirements
* Mentor junior colleagues and encourage reflective practice
* Take part in specialist training and professional development
What You'll Bring
* Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent) – essential
* Experience in children's residential care, ideally in a senior or shift-lead role
* Strong safeguarding knowledge and trauma-informed practice expertise
* Calm, confident leadership with excellent communication skills
* Emotional resilience with a warm, grounded approach to care
* Full UK driving licence – essential
* Flexibility for 24.5-hour shifts (10:00am–11:00pm, sleep-in, then 7:00am–10:30am), including 2–3 sleep-ins weekly
What You'll Gain
* £32,500–£36,300 per year (including £60 per sleep-in)
* Long day/sleep-in shift pattern to support work-life balance
* Clear pathways for career progression
* Comprehensive induction and ongoing training in therapeutic care models
* A supportive, collaborative, and values-driven team culture
* Pension scheme and additional staff benefits
* Above all—a role with genuine purpose, where your work truly changes lives
Ready to Make a Lasting Difference?
If you're a compassionate, confident childcare professional who believes in the power of relationship-based care, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now 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