Residential Childcare Practitioner

Residential Childcare Practitioner

Full-Time 32123 £ / year No home office possible
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East Sussex County Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support vulnerable children in care, focusing on their development and wellbeing.
  • Company: Join a dedicated team in East Sussex, making a real difference in children's lives.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible full-time or part-time shifts, comprehensive training, and career progression opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while working in a supportive and rewarding environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience with children, interest in child development, and strong communication skills required.
  • Other info: Full training provided, including an apprenticeship for further qualifications.

Do you want to make a difference to the most vulnerable children in care and help them flourish and achieve their potential?

We have Children’s disability homes in Eastbourne & Bexhill, where vulnerable children live and receive support from a multi-disciplinary team of professionals who are responsible for their welfare.

As a Residential Childcare Practitioner, you will work with the children who often have complex needs as well as their families. You will support the children’s development and wellbeing. You can also take a lead on specialist areas and projects such as healthy eating to support improvements across the service. This role gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in East Sussex.

Please note that unfortunately we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role, so if you do require sponsorship, we will be unable to progress with your application.

We are looking for people who:

  • Have experience with working with children
  • An interest in child development
  • Can treat residents of the home with dignity and respect

We want to make the application process as easy as possible, so please click the apply now button to provide a CV and a brief Supporting Statement that highlights how you meet the key requirements below, as this is what we will be shortlisting on:

  • Have an interest in child development and willingness to learn.
  • Experience of working with children and young people.
  • Ability to work as part of an integrated childcare team
  • Treat residents of the homes with dignity and respect and maintain confidentiality at all times

Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.

As well as the above it is vital that you have communication skills and are able to demonstrate resilience which is needed as part of this testing but highly rewarding career.

We are currently recruiting to our homes based in Bexhill and Eastbourne where we have opportunities for staff who can work full time or part time.

  • The role involves personal care, moving and handling of children and young people, all who have complex health needs and disabilities.
  • If full time it will be 5 days a week.
  • Shift times are 7-2.30pm and 2-9.30pm which means that each shift is for 7.5 hrs.
  • Shift patterns are given on a 4-week rolling rota pattern.

Interviews will be held in person in Eastbourne or Bexhill within two weeks of the closing date.

Progression to Single Status 8 to be dependent upon level 3 qualification in Residential Childcare or equivalent and additional responsibilities.

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.

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 the role, please contact either Amy or Emma to arrange a call.

Amy Martin – Amy.Martin@eastsussex.gov.uk

Emma Quicke – Emma.quicke@Eastsussex.gov.uk

Salary noted includes two weekend working increments

Residential Childcare Practitioner employer: East Sussex County Council

Join a dedicated team in Eastbourne and Bexhill, where your role as a Residential Childcare Practitioner will empower vulnerable children to thrive. We pride ourselves on a supportive work culture that values professional development, offering comprehensive training and apprenticeship opportunities to enhance your skills. With a focus on dignity and respect for every child, you will find meaningful and rewarding employment while making a significant impact in the lives of those we serve.
East Sussex County Council

Contact Detail:

East Sussex County Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Practitioner

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children in care, especially those with disabilities. Understanding their challenges and how to support their development will show your commitment and readiness for the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Reach out to current or former Residential Childcare Practitioners to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information about the day-to-day responsibilities and help you articulate your passion during the interview.

✨Tip Number 3

Highlight any relevant training or workshops you've attended related to child development or special needs. This demonstrates your proactive approach to learning and your dedication to improving your skills in this field.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully worked as part of a team or handled challenging situations. This will showcase your teamwork abilities and resilience, which are crucial for this role.

We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Practitioner

Experience in working with children and young people
Understanding of child development
Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
Strong communication skills
Resilience and emotional stability
Confidentiality and respect for residents
Personal care skills
Knowledge of health and safety practices
Ability to handle complex health needs and disabilities
Empathy and compassion
Adaptability to changing situations
Organisational skills
Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Residential Childcare Practitioner. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.

Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the key requirements listed in the job description. Use specific examples from your past work with children to showcase your skills and commitment.

Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasise any previous experience working with children, particularly those with complex needs. Mention any specific projects or roles that relate to child development and wellbeing.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and supporting statement for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at East Sussex County Council

✨Show Your Passion for Child Development

Make sure to express your genuine interest in child development during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to helping vulnerable children flourish.

✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills

As a Residential Childcare Practitioner, you'll be part of a multi-disciplinary team. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, showcasing your ability to collaborate and support others.

✨Demonstrate Resilience and Communication Skills

The role requires strong communication skills and resilience. Think of specific situations where you faced challenges while working with children and how you effectively communicated and overcame those obstacles.

✨Prepare Questions About the Role

Show your enthusiasm by preparing thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you understand if the position aligns with your career goals.

Residential Childcare Practitioner
East Sussex County Council
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East Sussex County Council
  • Residential Childcare Practitioner

    Full-Time
    32123 £ / year

    Application deadline: 2027-09-01

  • East Sussex County Council

    East Sussex County Council

    1889

    East Sussex County Council are a local authority who deliver vital community services to over half a million people. As an employer we offer a diverse and rewarding range of career opportunities. Your chosen pathway could involve work that directly influences the education, social, mental, financial, and physical wellbeing of our residents and shapes the environment within which they live, or you might make your mark within one of the essential functions that supports the delivery of these services.

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