At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with autism in a residential setting, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Company: Heronsbridge School, a special school dedicated to children with severe learning difficulties.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, night and sleep-in allowances, and valuable experience in social care.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while gaining essential skills.
- Qualifications: Level 2 and Level 3 Health and Social Care qualifications; experience with children is essential.
- Other info: Temporary position until August 2026 with flexible shift patterns.
The predicted salary is between 20814 - 21492 £ per year.
Heronsbridge School is a maintained special school for children with severe learning difficulties aged 3 – 19. The governors are seeking a dedicated individual with patience and energy to work in our residential houses with children and young adults with autism.
Salary: £20,814 – £21,492 per annum; Night Allowance £2,663 – £2,750; Sleep In Allowance £1,289.
Responsibilities:
- Work 4 nights a week, term time only, to a 3-week rota: Week 1 and Week 2 4 evenings Monday to Thursday sleeping in once a week; Week 3 4 awake shifts Monday to Thursday.
- Shift times: 3.15 p.m. – 10.00 p.m. evenings, 7.30 a.m. – 9.00 a.m. mornings (after sleep in), 10.00 p.m. – 9.00 a.m. awake shifts.
- Provide ½ hour unpaid break during evening shifts.
- Protect children, young people or adults at risk – core responsibility of all council employees.
Qualifications:
- Level 2 Health and Social Care Core AND Level 3 Health and Social Care Practice experience.
- Experience working with children essential.
- Enhanced Children and Adults Barred list DBS check required.
- Night duties and sleeping in are a requirement of this post.
Conditions:
- Temporary post until 31 August 2026.
- Closing date: 18 February 2026.
- Shortlisting date: W/c 23 February 2026.
- Interview date: W/c 02 March 2026.
Benefits: Benefits to working at Bridgend County Borough Council.
Residential Childcare Officer - Heronsbridge School in Bridgend employer: Educators Wales
Contact Detail:
Educators Wales Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Officer - Heronsbridge School in Bridgend
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the childcare sector, especially those who work with children with autism. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to working with children with severe learning difficulties. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for helping children during interviews. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your patience and energy – it’s what they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Officer - Heronsbridge School in Bridgend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children and young adults shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in childcare or working with individuals with autism. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to see why you’re the right fit for the job.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Educators Wales
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Residential Childcare Officer and the specific needs of children with autism. Familiarise yourself with Heronsbridge School's ethos and values, as well as any relevant legislation or best practices in childcare.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your patience and energy, as these qualities are essential for this role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations involving children with severe learning difficulties. Think about examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed challenging behaviours or supported a child’s development.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready to ask about the school and its approach to care. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.