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- Tasks: Support young people in a nurturing environment and lead engaging activities.
- Company: Apple Orchard, a compassionate residential care provider for young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, sleep-in allowances, funded qualifications, and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while growing your own skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for helping youth, experience with teenagers preferred, and a driving licence required.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to creating positive change.
The predicted salary is between 27929 - 29609 £ per year.
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract: Full Time, permanent
Specific Hours: 40 hours per week - shift pattern
Starting Salary: Base salary of £27,929.36 with the potential to earn up to £29,609.36 with sleep in shifts
Salary after probation: Base salary of £29,088.80 with the potential to earn up to £30,768.80 with sleep in shifts
About Us: Apple Orchard operates five residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, set in peaceful rural surroundings. We provide nurturing, therapeutic homes for boys aged 12-18, many of whom have experienced significant trauma or disruption in their early lives. You will help young people heal, grow, and reach their potential. You will be part of a team that celebrates small wins, values individual contributions, and provides a safe, caring environment for everyone - including staff. We are looking for compassionate, resilient and enthusiastic individuals to join our dedicated team of Residential Childcare Support Workers. Whether you are experienced or new to the role, if you are passionate about helping young people thrive, we want to hear from you.
What You Will Do: As a Support Worker, you will play a vital role in the daily life of the young people we care for. You will:
- Provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive home environment
- Plan and lead engaging activities to promote development and confidence
- Build trusting, stable relationships with young people, guiding them toward independence
- Keep clear and accurate records of behaviour, progress, and achievements
- Collaborate with local authorities and external professionals to ensure excellent standards of care
- Work as part of a committed, energetic team - supporting each other and contributing to a positive home culture
What We Are Looking For:
Essential:
- A passion for making a positive impact on young lives
- Experience working with teenagers or challenging behaviours (preferred)
- Flexibility to work varied shifts (including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins)
- A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (essential due to rural locations)
Desirable:
- Hold Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma/Children and Young People's Workforce/NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care or equivalent - or be willing to work towards a required qualification
- Ability to manage behaviour with calmness and empathy
- Strong communication skills - both written and verbal
- A team player with a good sense of humour and emotional resilience
- Ability to follow procedures, write reports, and contribute to care plans
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary and sleep-in allowances (£35 per night, typically one per week)
- Every other weekend off
- Fully funded qualifications and professional development
- Clear promotion pathways and career progression
- Company pension
- Access to employee discount and wellbeing programmes
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. Successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.
Residential Childcare Support Worker in Sussex employer: Apple Orchard
Contact Detail:
Apple Orchard Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Support Worker in Sussex
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out Apple Orchard's website and social media. Understanding their values and mission will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your storytelling skills! Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've made a positive impact on young lives. This will help you stand out during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your flexibility! Since the role involves varied shifts, be prepared to talk about your availability and how you can adapt to the needs of the team and the young people you'll be supporting.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Support Worker in Sussex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for helping young people shine through. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field. We want to see your enthusiasm for making a positive impact!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Residential Childcare Support Worker. Use keywords from the job description to show us you understand what we're looking for.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your writing is easy to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, so get straight to the good stuff about why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Apple Orchard
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Apple Orchard. Understand their mission, values, and the specific needs of the young people they support. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your answers to align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, make sure to express your passion for working with young people. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact. This role is all about compassion and resilience, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess how you handle challenging situations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. Think of examples where you've successfully managed behaviour or built trusting relationships with young people.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team culture, training opportunities, or how they measure success in supporting young people. This shows you're engaged and serious about the role, plus it helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
