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- Tasks: Support vulnerable children through the night, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
- Company: Wilderness Way is dedicated to making a positive impact in children's lives.
- Benefits: Earn from £14/hour, enjoy 5.6 weeks annual leave, and receive health benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while working in a supportive, trauma-informed culture.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and a willingness to achieve a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; perfect for those seeking meaningful work during nights.
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 Night 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 Night 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, even if it's informal. Whether through volunteering, babysitting, or working in education, these experiences can demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your emotional resilience and ability to work alone during night shifts. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully managed challenging situations, as this will show your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Wilderness Way and their approach to child care. Being knowledgeable about their values and mission will help you align your answers with what they are looking for, making a strong impression during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Waking Night Childrens Residential Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Waking Night Residential Support Worker. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience working with children or young people, make sure to emphasise this in your CV and cover letter. Provide specific examples of how you've supported vulnerable individuals in the past.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your calmness, dependability, and emotional resilience in your application. Use anecdotes that illustrate these qualities, especially in challenging situations.
Personalise Your Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for supporting children and your understanding of the role. Mention why you want to work at Wilderness Way specifically and how you can contribute to their mission.
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 or stories that highlight your commitment to supporting vulnerable young people, as this role is all about making a positive impact in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Resilience
Since the role involves working through the night and potentially dealing with challenging situations, be prepared to discuss how you handle stress and maintain calmness. Provide examples of past experiences where you've shown emotional strength and resilience.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Trauma-Informed Care
Understanding trauma-informed care is crucial for this position. Research the principles behind it and be ready to discuss how you would apply these principles in your interactions with the children during your interview.
✨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 the environment aligns with your values and expectations.
