At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with daily routines and create a warm, homely environment.
- Company: ACAD, a caring organisation dedicated to shaping futures.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, welcome bonus, career development, and 24/7 support.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy meaningful work with excellent training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives every day.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; passion and a caring attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 25642 - 26032 € per year.
Location: Castle Douglas
Pay: £25,642.50 to £26,032.50 PLUS £67.50 per sleep-in, expect 10 sleeps per month = an additional £8000+ over the year.
A Full UK driving license is needed for this role and we are unable to offer visa sponsorships.
Extraordinary Days Every Day
Are you ready for a role that truly makes a difference? If so, apply today and make this year the start of something amazing. We welcome applicants with and without experience and from backgrounds such as education, youth work, childcare, healthcare, social care, learning disabilities, SEN and community services.
At ACAD, you’re not just working - you’re shaping futures. As a support worker, based within Castle Douglas, every moment you spend with our young people helps them feel safe, valued and supported. A simple "How was your day?", a shared laugh over a board game or encouragement during a tough moment - these small interactions build trust and shape lives. Some days will be challenging but every breakthrough, every smile and every step forward will remind you why this work truly matters.
What You’ll Do
- Support young people with their daily routines; getting them ready for school, prepping for meal times and planning activities.
- Create a warm, homely environment by helping with light housekeeping.
- Build strong, meaningful relationships and provide emotional support.
- Plan and join fun activities like trips to the park, popcorn & movie nights or creative projects.
- Keep essential records to ensure the best possible care.
- Must be comfortable using an electronic care recording system on a daily basis to document, monitor, and update children and young people’s records accurately. Experience with Clearcare is an advantage, but not essential, as full training will be provided. However, all staff are expected to confidently use digital systems as part of their day-to-day role.
Where You’ll Do It
Torrs is made up of 5 individual homes, which are registered to support 9 young people. We focus on activities that promote the health and wellbeing of our young people, guiding them through the next stages in their life and being a safe space for them to express themselves.
Who You Are
Warm, patient, a great listener and encourager - focused on achieving outcomes for others. No prior experience? No problem! If you have the passion, we’ll provide the training.
Why Join Us?
- £500 Welcome Bonus
- £1000 Refer a Friend Bonus
- Full-time contract + Paid Induction
- Career development with specialist training
- 24/7 support: Helpline and hardship grants via the CareTech Foundation.
Your Next Step
This isn’t just a job - it’s a chance to change lives, one extraordinary day at a time. Join us and be part of something meaningful. Apply today.
Safeguarding Statement
CareTech is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children. All applicants must pass an enhanced PVG check and provide references covering the past two years plus all roles involving vulnerable groups.
Residential Childcare Practitioner employer: Cambian Group Plc
At ACAD, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of young people. Located in the welcoming community of Castle Douglas, we offer a supportive work culture that values every team member's contribution, alongside competitive pay and comprehensive training opportunities. With a focus on personal growth and meaningful interactions, you will find a rewarding career where your efforts are truly appreciated and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on ACAD. Check out their website and social media to see what they value. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. Focus on common questions for support worker roles, like how you’d handle challenging situations with young people. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to helping others. Whether it’s volunteering or caring for someone in your life, let them see your heart for this work.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for working with young people shine through. We want to see why you care about making a difference in their lives, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight any skills or experiences that relate directly to supporting young people, whether it’s from previous jobs, volunteering, or personal experiences.
Be Authentic:We love genuine applicants! Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. Share your unique story and what makes you a great fit for our team at ACAD. Authenticity goes a long way!
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can start the process of welcoming you to our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambian Group Plc
✨Know Your Impact
Before the interview, think about how your actions can positively influence the lives of young people. Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences, even if they’re not directly related to childcare. This shows your understanding of the role and your commitment to making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
As a Residential Childcare Practitioner, qualities like patience, empathy, and communication are key. Prepare to discuss situations where you’ve demonstrated these skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Digital Tools
Since the role involves using electronic care recording systems, it’s a good idea to brush up on your digital skills. If you have experience with similar systems, mention it. If not, express your willingness to learn and adapt quickly to new technologies.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, the types of activities you might plan, or how success is measured in the role. This shows your genuine interest and helps you determine if the environment is the right fit for you.