At Nurture Bridge, we provide therapeutic, nurturing homes for children and young people aged 7–17 with emotional and behavioural needs. Our mission is to create safe, structured environments where children can heal, grow, and thrive. We are now seeking a dedicated and experienced Deputy Manager to help lead our team at Woodview House in Wexham, Slough.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with strong leadership skills and a passion for making a lasting difference in the lives of children and young people.
About You
You'll be a confident, compassionate leader with a proven track record in residential childcare. You'll bring a deep understanding of trauma-informed practice, a commitment to safeguarding, and the ability to inspire and support a team.
Essential Requirements:
· Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England) – required
· Minimum 2 years' experience in a children's residential setting
· Experience supervising or managing staff in a care environment
· Aged 21 or over (per children's home regulations)
· Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
Desirable:
· Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare (or working towards)
· Knowledge of the Children's Homes Regulations and Quality Standards
· Experience with therapeutic models of care
Key Responsibilities
As Deputy Manager, you will support the Registered Manager in the day-to-day running of the home, ensuring high standards of care, compliance, and team performance. Your responsibilities will include:
* Leading and supervising staff on shift, ensuring consistent, child-centred care
* Supporting the Registered Manager with audits, rotas, and operational planning
* Conducting staff supervisions, appraisals, and performance monitoring
* Overseeing placement plans, risk assessments, and behaviour support strategies
* Ensuring safeguarding procedures are followed and concerns are escalated appropriately
* Promoting a positive, therapeutic environment that supports emotional resilience
* Liaising with families, social workers, and external professionals
* Supporting with budgeting, record-keeping, and regulatory compliance
* Acting as a role model and mentor to junior staff
Work Schedule & Wellbeing
We understand the demands of leadership in residential care and are committed to supporting your wellbeing:
* Full-time role with structured shifts and protected time off
* Split shifts to promote work-life balance and prevent burnout
* Sleep-in duties paid at £60 per night
* Regular 1:1s, reflective supervision, and team development sessions
Why Join Nurture Bridge?
* Competitive salary: £33,000–£35,000 per year
* Ongoing training and leadership development
* Supportive culture with a focus on wellbeing and reflective practice
* Team events: coffee mornings, BBQs, team lunches, and more
* Healthy work-life balance and flexible scheduling
Additional Information
* This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and rigorous safer recruitment procedures
* All offers of employment are subject to the successful completion of a probationary period and all safer recruitment checks returning clear
* Disqualification from Caring for Children (England) Regulations 2002 applies
* You must have the right to work in the UK
Still Interested?
If you're ready to take the next step in your leadership journey and help shape a home where children feel safe, valued, and inspired, we'd love to hear from you. For an informal chat about the role, feel free to get in touch.
Benefits:
· Casual dress
· Company pension
· Free on-site parking
· Health & wellbeing programme
· Company events and socials
Experience:
· Residential Childcare: 2 years (required)
· Team leadership or management: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
· Full UK Driving Licence (required)
· Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (required)
· Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare (preferred or willingness to work towards)
Work Location: In person – Slough (Woodview House)
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £33,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Health & wellbeing programme
* On-site parking
Licence/Certification:
* Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England) (RQF) (required)
Work Location: In person