At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable children in care, helping them thrive and develop.
- Company: East Sussex Council, dedicated to providing exceptional care for children.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, paid training, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with a focus on safeguarding and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, eagerness to learn, and teamwork skills.
Do you want to be the person who helps children in care feel safe, supported, and able to thrive? If so, this could be the perfect opportunity for you! We have children’s homes across East Sussex, where vulnerable children live and receive support from a dedicated multi-disciplinary team. Our homes include Children’s Disability Homes, Open Homes, and a Secure Residential Home. We also have the Seaside Short Stays Home, offering respite for children and families.
As a Residential Childcare Practitioner, you’ll play a vital role in supporting children’s development and wellbeing, working closely with them, their families, and other professionals. You’ll also have opportunities to lead specialist projects, such as promoting healthy eating, to make a real difference across our services.
We understand that the great care we provide is down to the great staff we have. We provide a comprehensive induction process to teach you all the skills and knowledge you need. We also provide an apprenticeship in the level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, with off the job training time and all course fees paid for by the Council. If you want to develop a career working with children there are also a range of development opportunities, including further apprenticeship opportunities to support your career aspirations.
This role offers flexible working options that fit around term times, holidays, and weekends. You can join us on a contracted basis or work as part of our relief team. It’s a brilliant opportunity to put your skills to good use, meet new people, and enjoy a role that works around your life.
We are looking for people who:
- Have experience working with children and young people
- Are interested in child development and eager to learn
- Can work effectively as part of an integrated childcare team
- Treat residents with dignity and respect, maintaining confidentiality at all times
To apply for this role, please follow the ‘Apply Now’ button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.
For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page and our statement on the use of AI. Unfortunately, we are unable to progress applications of people who are on a visa or require sponsorship at this time. Interviews will take place in person in Eastbourne within two weeks of closing date. Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist.
All staff are trained and supported to deliver their roles professionally, with a strong focus on safeguarding. You’ll work in a role where your vigilance, respect, and professional curiosity help keep children safe, supported, and able to thrive.
We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.
For an informal discussion about this opportunity contact Emma Quicke via Emma.quicke@Eastsussex.gov.uk.
For putting your skills to good use, choose East Sussex!
Residential Childcare Practitioner - Bungalow in Eastbourne employer: East Sussex County Council
At East Sussex, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to nurturing the potential of our staff while making a profound impact on the lives of vulnerable children. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through comprehensive training, including a fully funded apprenticeship in Residential Childcare, and offers flexible working arrangements that accommodate your lifestyle. Join us in a rewarding role where your passion for child development can truly shine, and enjoy the unique opportunity to work in beautiful East Sussex, surrounded by a dedicated multi-disciplinary team committed to making a difference.
Contact Details:
East Sussex County Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Practitioner - Bungalow in Eastbourne
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research their values and mission, especially how they support children in care. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events related to childcare. This can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which can boost your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about real-life examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills in child development and teamwork. Practising your answers can help you feel more confident and ready to impress.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure your Supporting Statement highlights how you meet the criteria in the person specification – this is your chance to shine!
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Practitioner - Bungalow in Eastbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:Make sure to customise your Supporting Statement to highlight how you meet the criteria in the person specification. Use specific examples from your experience that show your passion for working with children and how you've made a difference in their lives.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When writing your CV, focus on any previous roles or experiences that relate directly to childcare. Whether it's volunteer work, internships, or even personal experiences, let us see how they’ve shaped your skills and understanding of child development.
Be Genuine and Personal:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to share your personal motivations for wanting to work with children. A heartfelt story or insight can really make your application stand out and resonate with us.
Follow Our Application Process:Remember to apply through our website by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button. It’s super easy! Just upload your CV and Supporting Statement, and you’re good to go. Following the process helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Sussex County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly read the job description and person specification. Understand what the role of a Residential Childcare Practitioner entails and think about how your experiences align with their needs. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Share Your Passion
During the interview, don’t hold back on expressing your passion for working with children. Share specific examples from your past experiences where you've made a positive impact. Whether it’s through volunteering, previous jobs, or personal experiences, let them see your dedication to child development and wellbeing.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team dynamics, the types of projects you might lead, or how they support staff development. Asking questions shows that you’re engaged and serious about the role, plus it gives you a chance to assess if this is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Finally, just be yourself! The interviewers are looking for someone who fits into their team and shares their values. Don’t try to be someone you’re not; authenticity goes a long way in building trust. Show your personality and let them see the real you, as this is crucial in a role that involves caring for vulnerable children.
