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- Tasks: Support young people in a nurturing environment, planning activities and fostering positive relationships.
- Company: Join Apple Orchard, a caring organisation dedicated to helping young males overcome challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours with no contractual obligations and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that values personal growth and positive change for young people.
- Qualifications: Experience with teenagers and relevant qualifications in childcare or health and social care required.
- Other info: Casual role with shift patterns; must have a valid driving license and access to a vehicle.
We currently have openings for experienced Residential Childcare Support Workers who are passionate about making a positive and lasting difference to young people, and willing to undertake relevant training and qualifications.
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract: Casual
Specific Hours: Shift Pattern - ad-hoc cover
Apple Orchard operates four homes in Surrey and West Sussex, each in rural locations, providing a homely environment for young males. We seek Residential Support Workers for casual roles, offering flexibility and no contractual obligations.
Our aim is to help young people understand their experiences and move on from traumatic pasts by providing safe boundaries and achievable goals, including positive reinforcement strategies. We prioritize nurturing environments that meet all basic needs and foster supportive relationships and positive attachments.
Duties and Responsibilities:- Provide a caring, motivating environment tailored to individual developmental needs.
- Plan and prepare activities to meet young people's needs, encouraging learning and integration.
- Stay informed of legislation, policies, and standards, including Children’s Act, Ofsted guidance.
- Observe and record young people's progress, achievements, and significant events; maintain up-to-date life books.
- Collaborate with local authorities to ensure outstanding care.
- Build positive relationships with parents/carers to support development.
- Be flexible within work practices, including domestic tasks like cooking, cleaning, and shopping.
- Work with the team to uphold the home's philosophy.
- Maintain clear, legible records, distinguishing fact, opinion, and third-party info.
- Experience working with teenage boys or challenging behaviour; willingness to develop skills.
- Valid driving license and access to a vehicle; public transport may not be viable.
- Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma, Children and Young People's Workforce NVQ Level in Health & Social Care, or equivalent.
- Willingness to engage young people in activities and support their journey to independence.
- Flexibility in working hours, including days, evenings, weekends; shift work with every other weekend off.
- Ability to challenge unacceptable behaviour, set firm boundaries, and meet individual needs.
- Teamwork skills, adherence to policies, effective communication, active listening.
Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All staff will undergo a DBS check at an enhanced level.
Residential Childcare Support Worker (Casual) employer: Apple Orchard
Contact Detail:
Apple Orchard Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Support Worker (Casual)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of young males in residential care. Understanding their backgrounds and challenges will help you connect better during interviews and demonstrate your passion for making a positive impact.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have working with challenging behaviour or in similar environments. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed difficult situations or supported young people in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Apple Orchard and their approach to care. Knowing their philosophy and values will allow you to tailor your conversation and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your flexibility regarding shift patterns and your willingness to engage in various tasks, from planning activities to domestic duties. This shows that you're adaptable and committed to supporting the home's environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Support Worker (Casual)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Residential Childcare Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with the specific duties mentioned in the job description to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with young people, particularly teenage boys or those with challenging behaviour. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've made a positive impact in similar roles.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications related to childcare, such as the Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma or NVQ Level in Health & Social Care. Mention any additional training or certifications that align with the job requirements.
Personalise Your Cover Letter: Craft a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for supporting young people. Discuss why you want to work at Apple Orchard specifically and how your values align with their mission to provide a nurturing environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Apple Orchard
✨Show Your Passion
Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with young people. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a positive impact in their lives.
✨Know the Legislation
Familiarise yourself with relevant legislation, such as the Children’s Act and Ofsted guidance. Being knowledgeable about these will demonstrate your commitment to providing safe and compliant care.
✨Highlight Flexibility
Since the role requires flexibility in working hours, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different shift patterns. This shows you are ready to meet the needs of the organisation.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Discuss your ability to work collaboratively with others. Provide examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment, especially in challenging situations, to show you can uphold the home's philosophy.
