At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and nurture vulnerable young people in a residential setting.
- Company: Join Notton House Academy, a caring and innovative environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and employee support schemes.
- Other info: Dynamic team with excellent career growth and supportive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: QCF Level 3 in Residential Care or equivalent; experience with SEND is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 23741 - 26754 £ per year.
Hours: 36.33 hours per week, Monday to Friday School Term Time Only - Including Inset Days - Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 2.30 pm - 10.30 pm, Tuesday 2.00 pm to 10.30 pm, Friday 9.30 am to 3.00 pm. This is a sample rota.
Salary: £23,741 - £26,754 (Actual salary for term time) Pay award pending.
Start Date: Thursday 3rd September 2026.
Welcome to Notton House Academy. We are sure you are excited about learning more about the wonderful educational and residential provision that we provide to vulnerable young people aged 8-19. Pupils with an EHCP (Educational and Health Care Plan) are referred to Notton House due to their specific social and emotional needs. Many of our young people have experienced adverse childhood experiences, others have a diagnosis of Autism, ADHD, and many have speech, language, and communication needs; but all of our young people require a bespoke and therapeutic programme, in order to be happy, to achieve and succeed, and to eventually, to lead a healthy, and independent life.
Notton House is situated in leafy Wiltshire, between Chippenham and Lacock. The site itself is stunning, with huge grounds, a forest school area, poly tunnel and raised gardening beds for each class, an outdoor gym, and low level traversing wall. Inside the Grade II listed building, are 39 bedrooms, many with en-suites, a cinema room, a fitness suite, a sensory room, and a gaming suite. The art room, food technology suite, and lower school classes, including a private sensory garden, are also situated within the ‘old’ building. Within the purpose built and more modern education block, there are a number of classrooms, a sensory room, a science lab, a library, and a music room. Finally, there are two independent living houses for pupils who can demonstrate they are moving towards adulthood and independence, and who can be trusted to budget, cook, clean, and take care of themselves and others.
The Leadership Team and staff at Notton House are so very pleased that you are considering applying for the position of Residential Child Care Officer. Without doubt, this is a great opportunity to join our forward thinking team, to support and nurture the young people we cater for. This position would require the successful candidate to start on Thursday 3rd September 2026.
Personal Attributes
We are looking for an enthusiastic, imaginative, and energetic Residential Child Care Officers to join our academy’s vision. We aim for our young people to be kind, stay safe, and show respect. These values underpin all that we do during the day, and the evening. We hope that the successful candidate will be committed to improving the outcomes for the pupils, as well as learning new skills and acquiring knowledge themselves.
What can we offer you?
We provide an extensive range of professional development courses, and qualifications, and we aim for staff to become lifelong learners, just like our young people. All staff at Notton House are supportive, and caring, as this role can be challenging, and demanding, but there is always someone to lend a hand, or share a listening ear. There are many advantages to working for us - access to a government pension scheme, sick pay scheme, cycle-to-work scheme, free eye tests and employee assistance helpline. Support staff in schools can also benefit from a range of national discount schemes available to education professionals such as the Blue Light Card offering savings on shopping, travel, and leisure.
Skills and Experience
QCF (NVQ) level 3 (or above) Qualification in Residential Care (or an Equivalent) is required - if not already held the expectation is that you would complete this within the first 2 years of employment (This will be supported by the Academy). Experience of working with SEND children or adults is highly desirable, but not essential, as we firmly believe it is about the individual person and what they can bring to the role, and how they can contribute positively to changing young people’s lives. You will be joining an experienced team of professional colleagues, who are dedicated and well-trained.
Closing Date: Monday 8th June 2026.
Interviews: Thursday 18th June 2026. We encourage early applications as we reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the closing date if we receive sufficient applications for the role.
To arrange a visit please contact Cath Neale, Bursar/HR Manager.
Safeguarding Statement
Notton House Academy and Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
For further information and an application pack please click "Apply on our website".
Residential Child Care Officers in Swindon employer: Notton House Academy
Notton House Academy is an exceptional employer dedicated to nurturing the potential of vulnerable young people while fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. Located in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside, we offer extensive professional development opportunities, a strong commitment to employee well-being, and a range of benefits including a government pension scheme and access to national discount schemes. Join our passionate team and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students while enjoying a fulfilling career in a beautiful setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Child Care Officers in Swindon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the academy! Research Notton House Academy and understand its values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference for the young people.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips about the role and the team, which can give you an edge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you'd handle specific situations with SEND children. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our amazing team at Notton House Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Child Care Officers in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the role of a Residential Child Care Officer. Highlight any relevant experience with SEND children or similar roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us get to know you better!
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute! We encourage early applications as we might close the vacancy if we receive enough great candidates. Head over to our website and get your application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at Notton House Academy
✨Know the Academy Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Notton House Academy. Familiarise yourself with their values, the facilities they offer, and the specific needs of the young people they support. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your answers to align with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Experience with SEND
Even if you don't have direct experience working with SEND children, think about any relevant skills or experiences you can bring to the table. Be ready to discuss how your background can contribute positively to the lives of the young people at Notton House, and share examples that highlight your adaptability and empathy.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Support
The role of a Residential Child Care Officer is all about collaboration. Be prepared to talk about your experiences working in teams, especially in challenging situations. Highlight how you’ve supported colleagues and contributed to a positive environment, as this aligns with the supportive culture at Notton House.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions. Ask about the professional development opportunities available, how the team supports each other, or what a typical day looks like. This shows you're serious about the role and eager to grow within the academy.