Residential Childcare Support Worker

Residential Support Worker

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Location: Horsham, West Sussex

Contract: Part- Time, permanent

Specific Hours: 30 hours per week – shift pattern

Starting Salary:

• Base salary: £21,784.90 pro rata (£29,046.53 FTE) per annum with the potential to earn up to £23,604.90 with sleep-in shifts
• * Salary after probation: Base salary of £22,689.26 pro rata (£30,252.35 FTE) per annum with the potential to earn up to £24,509.26 with sleep-in shifts

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay plus sleep-in allowance (£35 per night, typically one per week)
• Every other weekend off
• Fully funded qualifications and ongoing professional development
• Clear career progression pathways
• Company pension
• Access to employee discounts and wellbeing programmes

About Apple Orchard:

Apple Orchard runs five residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, providing nurturing, therapeutic environments for boys aged 12-18 who have often experienced trauma or disruption. Our teams help young people heal, grow, and reach their potential, celebrating progress and creating a safe, supportive space for both young people and staff.

We’re looking for compassionate, resilient, and enthusiastic individuals to join us as Residential Childcare Support Workers. Whether you’re experienced or new to the sector, if you’re passionate about helping young people thrive, we’d love to hear from you.

About this role:

As a Support Worker, you’ll play a key part in daily life at the home by:

• Providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment
• Planning and leading activities that build confidence and development
• Building positive, trusting relationships that guide young people toward independence
• Keeping accurate records of behaviour, progress, and achievements
• Working closely with local authorities and professionals to ensure high-quality care
• Being an active, supportive member of a committed team

What We’re Looking For:

Essential:

• A genuine passion for making a positive difference
• Experience with teenagers or challenging behaviours (preferred)
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (due to rural locations)

Desirable:

• Level 3 Residential Childcare or equivalent qualification (or willingness to work towards it)
• Ability to manage behaviour with calmness, empathy, and consistency
• Strong communication skills, written and verbal
• A team-focused approach, emotional resilience, and a good sense of humour
• Ability to follow procedures, write reports, and contribute to care plans

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. xiskglj Successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.