At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support children and families in a dynamic social care environment.
- Company: Join Lewisham Council, committed to creating an inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to high-quality services.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Social work qualification and registration with Social Work England required.
The predicted salary is between 56436 - 58551 £ per year.
We are seeking a Social Work qualified Advanced Practitioner to lead and support children and families within Lewisham's dynamic social care environment. The role involves managing a focused caseload, supervising a team of social workers and practitioners, and driving innovative, evidence‑based practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Work directly with children and families in care, including those in care proceedings and adoption work.
- Collaborate with other professionals and agencies to coordinate support for children in care.
- Deputise for the team manager, providing leadership and support to ensure high‑quality services.
- Monitor and improve team performance and implement necessary changes.
- Provide line supervision for AYSEs, social worker apprentices and team members, offering guidance in complex cases.
Qualifications & Experience
- Possess a recognised social work qualification and registration with Social Work England.
- Demonstrated experience in children looked after and care proceeding contexts.
- Strong leadership skills and the ability to inspire, motivate, and support a multidisciplinary team.
- Solid knowledge of statutory safeguarding practices for children in need of help and protection.
- Experience in the corporate parenting context is desirable.
- Valid DBS check (Basic/Enhanced) required.
Benefits and Salary
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Flexible working and family‑friendly policies.
- Season ticket and bicycle loans.
- Staff discounts including subsidised gym memberships.
- Generous leave entitlement.
- Comprehensive learning and development offer, including research subscriptions and professional training.
- Clear career progression pathway and opportunities for professional development.
Salary: £56,436 to £58,551 per annum (SCP 41‑43).
Location
Primary based in Laurence House, Catford SE6. The office is within walking distance of two local train stations and approximately 15 minutes from London Bridge by train.
Equal Opportunities Statement
Creating an Inclusive Lewisham: We are a Disability Confident employer and welcome applications from all abilities. The council supports reasonable adjustments and an access‑to‑work scheme for disabled applicants. We celebrate diversity and are committed to a workplace free from discrimination.
Additional Requirements
- Must hold a social work qualification and be registered with Social Work England.
- Job subject to DBS check (Basic/Enhanced).
Advanced Practitioner, Children Looked After, Corporate Parenting employer: Lewisham Strategic Partnership
Lewisham Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for social care professionals. With a strong focus on employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to diversity, we empower our Advanced Practitioners to lead impactful change in the lives of children and families. Located in Catford, just a short train ride from central London, our office provides easy access to the vibrant city while fostering a community-oriented culture that values collaboration and innovation.
Contact Details:
Lewisham Strategic Partnership Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Advanced Practitioner, Children Looked After, Corporate Parenting
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in social work, especially those who have experience in children looked after. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your leadership skills and evidence-based practices. Think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve made a difference in children's lives or improved team performance. We want to hear your stories!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your collaborative spirit! In your conversations, highlight how you’ve worked with other professionals and agencies to support children in care. This is key in our dynamic social care environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a positive impact in Lewisham.
We think you need these skills to ace Advanced Practitioner, Children Looked After, Corporate Parenting
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in children looked after and care proceedings. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Leadership Skills:Since this role involves supervising a team, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've inspired and supported others in your previous roles. We love to see candidates who can motivate a multidisciplinary team!
Highlight Collaborative Experience:Collaboration is key in social work, especially when working with other professionals and agencies. Be sure to mention any experiences where you’ve successfully coordinated support for children in care. We’re all about teamwork here at StudySmarter!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lewisham Strategic Partnership
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of statutory safeguarding practices and the corporate parenting context. Being able to discuss these topics confidently 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 inspired and motivated a team in the past. Think about specific situations where you provided guidance in complex cases or improved team performance. This will demonstrate your ability to lead effectively in a dynamic environment.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since the role involves working with various professionals and agencies, be ready to discuss your experience in collaboration. Share instances where you coordinated support for children in care, highlighting your teamwork skills and ability to build relationships.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the team's current challenges or how they measure success in their services. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
