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- Tasks: Support vulnerable children overnight, ensuring their safety and comfort.
- Company: Wilderness Way is dedicated to nurturing and supporting children in a residential setting.
- Benefits: Earn from £14/hour, enjoy 5.6 weeks leave, and receive health benefits and discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive, trauma-informed environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and a willingness to achieve a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; perfect for students seeking meaningful work.
The predicted salary is between 29120 - 40800 £ per year.
Job Description
Support Children While the World Sleeps – Waking Night Residential Support Worker
As a Waking Night Residential Support Worker at Wilderness Way, you'll play a vital role in supporting vulnerable children through the night – creating a peaceful, nurturing environment where they feel safe, seen, and supported.
Whether you're already experienced or looking to start a new career with purpose, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in children’s lives
Why Join Us?
- Base salary from £14/hour (from £29,120 for full-time hours)
- 10-hour night shifts (typically 10pm–8am)
- Open to full-time and part-time applicants
- 5.6 weeks annual leave
- Extra leave awarded at 2- and 5-years’ service
- Thorough induction and six-month welcome programme
- Fully funded Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (if not yet achieved)
- £1,000 ‘Refer a Friend’ bonus
- Monthly Wilderness Heroes Awards recognising your impact
- Medicash health benefits: optical/dental cashback, 24/7 virtual GP, wellness discounts
- Gym, high street and restaurant discounts
- Life assurance (2x salary)
- Company pension (auto-enrolled)
Your Night-to-Night
You'll provide calm, consistent care through the night, checking in on children, offering reassurance if they wake, and supporting any overnight needs. You’ll also complete light household tasks, write accurate logs, and help with the morning routine before handover to the day team.
You’ll usually be the sole waking staff member on shift, with sleep-in colleagues on site and a supportive, trauma-informed culture around you.
What We’re Looking For
- Experience with children or young people—in care, education, or similar
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or willingness to work towards it)
- Calm, dependable, and emotionally resilient
- A full UK driving licence and access to transport
- Confident in lone working and night-based roles
All roles at Wilderness Way are subject to Safer Recruitment checks, including references, an enhanced DBS, and online/social media screening for successful candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, experience, or protected characteristics.
Waking Nights Childrens Residential Support Worker employer: A Wilderness Way
Contact Detail:
A Wilderness Way Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Waking Nights Childrens Residential Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children in residential care. Understanding trauma-informed care and how to create a nurturing environment will set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have with children or young people, whether in care, education, or other settings. Be prepared to discuss specific situations where you provided support or guidance.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your emotional resilience and ability to work independently during the night shifts. Share examples of how you've managed challenging situations calmly and effectively in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Wilderness Way and their approach to child care. Being knowledgeable about their values and mission will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
We think you need these skills to ace Waking Nights Childrens Residential Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Waking Nights Children's Residential Support Worker position. Understand the responsibilities and the qualities they are looking for in a candidate.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience with children or young people, especially in care or educational settings. Emphasise any qualifications, such as a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, and showcase your emotional resilience and ability to work independently.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for supporting vulnerable children. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the role and why you would be a great fit for Wilderness Way.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in a role that involves caring for children.
How to prepare for a job interview at A Wilderness Way
✨Show Your Passion for Childcare
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with children. Share any relevant experiences you have, whether through previous jobs, volunteering, or personal anecdotes that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Resilience
Since the role involves working nights and supporting vulnerable children, it's crucial to convey your emotional resilience. Be prepared to discuss how you handle stress and maintain calmness in challenging situations, as this will be key to succeeding in the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Trauma-Informed Care
Understanding trauma-informed care is essential for this position. Research the principles of this approach and be ready to discuss how you would apply them in your interactions with the children, ensuring they feel safe and supported during the night.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you determine if Wilderness Way is the right fit for you. Ask about the team dynamics, training opportunities, and the support available for staff.
