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: Work in a supportive team with clear career progression pathways.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised social work qualification and leadership skills.
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).
Lead Advanced Practitioner: Children Looked After employer: Lewisham Strategic Partnership
As a leading employer in Lewisham's social care sector, we offer a supportive and dynamic work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive learning and development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a clear career progression pathway. Join us at Laurence House, where you will be part of a diverse team dedicated to delivering high-quality services while enjoying generous benefits and a strong work-life balance.
Contact Details:
Lewisham Strategic Partnership Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Advanced Practitioner: Children Looked After
✨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 or can give you a heads-up on what to expect in interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of statutory safeguarding practices and corporate parenting. We want you to shine, so think about how your experience aligns with the role and be ready to share specific examples from your past work.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be prepared to discuss how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to drive innovative, evidence-based practice in a dynamic environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at Lewisham and making a difference in children's lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Advanced Practitioner: Children Looked After
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:As a Lead Advanced Practitioner, your leadership abilities are key. Use your application to demonstrate how you've inspired and supported teams in the past. We love seeing examples of how you've driven innovative practices or improved team performance.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role, and remember to proofread for any typos!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you 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. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the application process 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 well-versed in these areas will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely passionate about supporting children and families.
✨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 multidisciplinary 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 communication skills and teamwork.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking insightful questions about the team dynamics or the challenges they face. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
