At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a supportive team focused on children in care and mentor new staff.
- Company: Essex County Council, dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Professional development opportunities and a chance to shape services for children.
- Other info: Mobile role with travel across Essex, promoting community collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your leadership skills in social work.
- Qualifications: Recognised social work qualification and experience in mentoring and decision-making.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 46000 € per year.
We are a supportive team that holds children at the centre of our work. As a Senior Practitioner you will provide leadership in the team, support and mentor newly qualified or less experienced staff, facilitate reflective group supervision, oversee the team's duty service, deputise for the Team Manager when needed, and lead in a practice area. You will also have the opportunity for your own professional development and help shape our team and service.
Responsibilities
- Lead the team and oversee the duty service.
- Mentor and support new and experienced staff.
- Facilitate reflective group supervision sessions.
- Deputise for the Team Manager as required.
- Lead in a practice area and contribute to service development.
Qualifications
- A recognised social work qualification (Diploma, degree or masters in Social Work, CQSW, CSS or equivalent) and current registration with Social Work England.
- Evidence of continuing professional development aligned to relevant professional competency frameworks or knowledge and skills statements.
- Significant experience of social work, demonstrating a comprehensive and up‑to‑date understanding of all relevant legislation, regulation and guidance.
- Experience of mentoring both Social Work students and newly qualified and experienced Social Work staff, acting as a subject matter expert in professional social work practice.
- Experience of chairing meetings involving clients, family members, carers and other multi‑agency professionals.
- Developing strong relationships with partners, other agencies and the local community to achieve joint objectives and offer a supportive framework for children, young people and families.
- In‑depth understanding of delivering value‑for‑money interventions balanced against need.
- Proven track record of clear decision making to highlight and limit potential risks associated with intervention.
Requirements
- Mobile throughout a wider operational area including travelling around the county of Essex and beyond. Must be able to transport service users and their belongings and do so in an emergency. A driving licence and a car, or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means, is essential.
EEO Statement
Essex County Council is committed to interview all disabled applicants who choose to apply under our Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements of the role. We also invite veterans and care leavers, who meet the minimum requirements of the role, to apply. We are committed to interview all applicants and to provide a fair and inclusive selection process.
Practitioner - Children in Care employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families. With a strong commitment to professional development, a supportive work culture, and opportunities for mentorship, you will thrive in a collaborative environment that values your contributions. Located in Essex, you will benefit from a diverse community and the chance to lead impactful initiatives while enjoying a fulfilling career in social work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Practitioner - Children in Care
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission of supporting children in care. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the team culture too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your mentoring experiences and how you've led teams in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that role!
We think you need these skills to ace Practitioner - Children in Care
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for working with children in care shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives and how your experiences have shaped that commitment.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Senior Practitioner. Highlight your relevant qualifications, experience, and any mentoring roles you've had. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission!
Be Specific in Your Examples:Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experiences. Whether it’s leading a team or facilitating supervision sessions, we want to hear about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our team there.
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 relevant to social work. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just qualified, but also passionate about your field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring and leading a team, prepare examples of how you've successfully led or supported others in the past. Think about specific situations where your leadership made a difference.
✨Reflective Practice is Key
Be ready to discuss how you facilitate reflective group supervision. Share your approach to encouraging open dialogue and learning within a team, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your experience in developing strong partnerships with other agencies and the community. Prepare to talk about how these relationships have helped achieve joint objectives and support children and families effectively.
