At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor a team supporting children in care, ensuring positive experiences and transitions.
- Company: Essex County Council, committed to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Mobile role across Essex with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people in care.
- Qualifications: Social work qualification and experience mentoring staff required.
The predicted salary is between 48205 - 57988 £ per year.
Fixed‑term secondment, 12‑month contract. Full‑time. Salary: £48,205 – £57,988 per annum. Location: Chelmsford. Working style: community‑based worker. Closing date: 31 May 2026.
Responsibilities
- Provide leadership within the team.
- Offer support and mentoring to newly qualified and less experienced staff.
- Facilitate reflective group supervision.
- Oversee the team's duty service.
- Deputise for the Team Manager when required.
- Lead within a designated practice area.
- Participate in professional development and contribute to team and service improvement.
About Children in Care
Children in Care (CIC) teams work with children and young people up to the age of 18 who are in care, ensuring a positive experience and preparing them for transition out of care or return to family. CIC teams handle post‑first‑hearing proceedings, visit placements, develop permanency plans—including Special Guardianship Orders and adoption—, conduct life‑story work, and support return to birth families.
Skills, Knowledge and Experience
- A recognised social work qualification (Diploma, degree, Masters, CQSW, CSS or equivalent) and current registration with Social Work England.
- Evidence of continuing professional development aligned with relevant competency frameworks or statements.
- Significant experience of social work with up‑to‑date knowledge of all relevant legislation, regulation and guidance.
- Experience of mentoring social work students and newly qualified or experienced staff.
- Experience chairing meetings involving clients, families and multi‑agency professionals.
- Developing strong relationships with partners, agencies and the local community to achieve joint objectives.
- In‑depth understanding of value‑for‑money interventions balanced against need.
- Proven track record of clear decision‑making to limit risks associated with interventions.
Additional Requirements
- Must be mobile across Essex, travel beyond the county, and have a valid driving licence.
- Ability to transport service users and their belongings in emergencies.
- If a DBS check is required, you must register with the DBS Update Service.
Benefits and EEO Statement
- Competitive salary within the stated range.
- Flexible working arrangements, including mobile work and support for unpaid carers.
- Opportunities for professional development and team contribution.
- Essex County Council is a Disability Confident Leader and will interview disabled applicants under the Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements.
- Veterans and care leavers who meet the minimum requirements will also be interviewed.
- The council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
For questions or further information, please email resourcing.team@essex.gov.uk.
Senior Practitioner, Children in Care - Essex Lead & Mentor in Chelmsford employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Senior Practitioners in Children in Care. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on safeguarding vulnerable individuals, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the community. The council's inclusive culture and dedication to employee well-being make it an attractive place for those seeking a rewarding career in social work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Practitioner, Children in Care - Essex Lead & Mentor in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, especially those who are already working in Children in Care. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to leadership and mentoring. Think about your past experiences and how they align with the responsibilities of the Senior Practitioner role. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for working with children in care during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨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 take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Practitioner, Children in Care - Essex Lead & Mentor in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Senior Practitioner. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves providing leadership and mentoring, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led teams or supported colleagues in the past. We want to see your ability to inspire and guide others!
Reflect on Your Experience:Take some time to reflect on your professional development and experiences in social work. Share specific instances where you've made a positive impact, especially in Children in Care settings, as this will resonate with us.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest legislation and guidance related to Children in Care. Being well-versed in these areas will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely passionate about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or mentored others in your previous roles. Highlight specific situations where your leadership made a difference, as this is crucial for the Senior Practitioner position.
✨Demonstrate Your Community Connections
Think about how you've built relationships with local agencies and communities in the past. Be ready to discuss how these connections can help achieve joint objectives in your new role.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions during the interview. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might encounter in the role and how you would address them, especially regarding decision-making and risk management.
