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: Social work qualification and experience with children in care 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).
Lead Advanced Practitioner: Children Looked After in London 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 programmes, flexible working arrangements, and generous benefits, including a Local Government Pension Scheme and staff discounts. Join us at Laurence House, where your leadership skills will thrive, and you'll be part of a diverse team dedicated to delivering high-quality services.
Contact Details:
Lewisham Strategic Partnership Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Advanced Practitioner: Children Looked After in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in social work and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to children looked after and care proceedings. We recommend role-playing with a friend or colleague to build your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've inspired and motivated teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where you’ve driven innovative practices or improved team performance.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Advanced Practitioner: Children Looked After in London
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 leadership abilities!
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in managing caseloads and supervising teams. We love seeing real-life scenarios where you've made a difference in children's lives.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in Lewisham's social care environment.
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 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 capability to lead effectively.
✨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.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking insightful questions about the team dynamics or the challenges faced in the role. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
