At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with diverse needs in a nurturing boarding environment.
- Company: Wilds Lodge School, a friendly and supportive educational institution.
- Benefits: Free meals, gym membership, training opportunities, and career progression.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team focused on personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for helping others; driving licence required; experience not necessary.
Wilds Lodge School - Rutland
Starting from £23,144 (Actual Salary) Permanent, Full Time and Term Time Only
Start date: 1st September 2026
We are excited to offer the opportunity to join our wonderful school and work with our exceptional learners. We are looking for people who are child centred and have a real care and desire to help improve the lives of our young people. If you are interested in joining us, regardless of experience or qualifications, please get in touch on the details listed below.
Your new role
We are currently recruiting for Therapeutic Boarding Staff to work in a friendly and supportive environment where your input will be key in achieving positive outcomes for our young people. The appointed person will become a member of the residential care team; working on a house group with up to 20 learners; and having personal support worker responsibilities for up to 5 learners; as directed by the team leader.
You will be expected to make a real and positive impact to the lives of children who have a range of care needs (SEMH/AHD), life experiences and personalities that makes every day varied and interesting. If you have a caring nature, a natural interest in people and want to make a difference then this just might be the job for you.
Working Hours:
- Shifts include 2.30pm - 10.00pm Monday to Thursday and 8.00am - 4.00pm Friday plus flexi time totalling 42.5 hours a week.
- Term time only
About Wilds Lodge
Wilds Lodge School is an independent 38 week specialist boarding and day provision for boys and girls (girls are accepted as day learners only) for learners aged between 5 and 19 with social, emotional and mental health difficulties, set in Empingham, Rutland. All the learners at the school have an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP). It was established in 2007 and aims to place an equal emphasis on the educational, social and psychological development of our learners.
The key to the success of the school is a strong ethos, developed by a highly experienced and capable staff, and the strength of the relationships between the staff and the learners. We are a friendly school where staff are supportive of each other inside and outside of the classroom. We pride ourselves in ensuring all members of staff including our support staff have access to regular training. All our members of staff attend regular training on child protection; mental health and multi-agency working. All staff access a wide range of training on areas of SEN such as Autism, attachment and ADHD.
What you'll need to succeed
We are seeking people who thrive on working in a challenging but immensely rewarding environment, who are passionate about supporting the development of social, life and independence skills and who truly want to make a difference in the lives of young people. Experience of working with people with autism is not necessary, but a commitment to learning is. A valid UK driving licence is required.
What you'll get in return
Wilds Lodge is a friendly school where staff are supportive of each other inside and outside of the classroom. We pride ourselves in ensuring all members of staff including our support staff have access to regular training. All our members of staff attend regular training on child protection; mental health and multi-agency working. All staff access a wide range of training on areas of SEN such as Autism, attachment and ADHD.
Desirable experience/qualifications
- Experience working with children with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties
- A valid driving licence is required
- GCSE/O'level or equivalent (desirable)
- The desire to complete a funded NVQ Level 3
Benefits include:
- Free onsite parking
- Free refreshments and meals whilst on duty
- Company events
- Gym membership
- Access to an employee assistance programme
- Group life cover 2 x salary from day 1
- Excellent CPD packages, paid induction training and opportunities for part funding of further training including HLTA, Master Degrees and Teacher Training
- Excellent promotion and career progression
- Enhanced paid family friendly leave
Our learners are incredibly important to us; if you have the energy and enthusiasm to make a real difference to the lives of our learners, we would love to hear from you. Visits to the school are welcome and encouraged.
How to apply:
For more information and a full application pack, please contact Mike Sherwin on the below details:
E: T: (phone number removed)
Closing date for applications: ASAP and by Wednesday 24th June 2026
Strong applications may be considered upon receipt
Wilds Lodge School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo Child Protection screening, including checks with past employers and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS check).
Children's Support Worker/Boarding Staff in Stamford employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education
Wilds Lodge School is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment for its staff. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from regular training in child protection and special educational needs, alongside opportunities for career progression and further qualifications. Located in the picturesque Rutland area, the school offers a range of perks including free meals, gym membership, and a commitment to employee well-being, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of young people.
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Children's Support Worker/Boarding Staff in Stamford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Wilds Lodge. Understand their ethos and values, and think about how your own experiences align with their mission to support young people.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you’re chatting with the team, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re not directly related to the role, to demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Don’t be shy about asking the interviewers about their training programmes or how they support staff development. This shows you’re serious about growing in the role and want to be part of their supportive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it gives you a chance to showcase your skills and personality right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Children's Support Worker/Boarding Staff in Stamford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you and how your caring nature can make a difference in our learners' lives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant experiences or skills that align with the role. Whether it's working with children or just your passion for helping others, we want to know what makes you a great fit!
Show Your Commitment:Even if you don’t have direct experience, share your willingness to learn and grow. We value a commitment to personal development and training, so let us know how you're ready to dive in!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into our hands quickly and efficiently!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education
✨Know the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to understand Wilds Lodge School's ethos and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to supporting learners with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties. This will help you align your answers with what they truly value in a Children's Support Worker.
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Young People
During the interview, express your genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of young people. Share any relevant experiences or anecdotes that highlight your caring nature and commitment to supporting children with diverse needs. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess how you would handle specific situations involving children with various care needs. Think about past experiences where you've demonstrated patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills. Practising these scenarios can give you the confidence to respond effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the role and the school environment. Inquire about the training opportunities available or how the team supports each other. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and your interest in being part of their supportive community.
