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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of social workers to support vulnerable children and families.
- Company: Join Oxfordshire County Council, shaping the future of children's social care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible work environment with opportunities for personal growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while working in a supportive, dynamic culture.
- Qualifications: Must have a Social Work qualification and experience in safeguarding and management.
- Other info: Be part of a team rated 'good' by Ofsted, striving for continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Us
Together, we’re shaping children’s social care for the future. Every day, our colleagues are helping to transform the lives of the residents of Oxfordshire.
In our Early Help, Assessment and Prevention Directorate, we’re committed to delivering lasting change, by helping the children, young people, and families of Oxfordshire to thrive. We know the importance of building relationships, empowering people, and building on strengths and this is reflected in our restorative, relational practice approach.
Everyday you’ll be challenged in a new way, supported by your team, in an organisation that is free thinking, flexible, and helps people achieve their ambitions.We’re not afraid to do things differently and our dynamic culture means this is a place where new ideas are embraced, and innovation thrives.
We believe that together, our differences make us stronger, and that diversity is the foundation for innovation. Here, you can create a unique career for yourself – while raising the bar for the future of children’s social care.
We’ve been consistently rated as “good” by Ofsted and we continue to strive to do better!Are you in?
About the Role
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children, young people, and families in need of help and protection? We have exciting Assistant Team Manager opportunities within the Children\’s Assessment Service
As one of our Assistant Team Managers, you will be responsible for co-ordinating and overseeing the social work response for children referred to us at the Front Door. You will line manage a pod of Social Workers, acting as Duty Manager, overseeing allocations for incoming section 17 and section 47 referrals, provide case and individual supervision to Social Workers and QA their completed work. Making threshold decisions is part of daily life in the Children\’s Assessment Service and you will provide clear advice and proportionate decisions in how we respond.
The role is face paced and your energy and enthusiasm will be key! You will be part of a wider management team, and with the support of your Team Manager and our skilled social workers, you will be at the forefront of safeguarding our most vulnerable children and families.
About you
The post holder will be free-thinking and brave, and that sets you apart. You\’ll be supportive and energised; you don\’t accept the norm if it can be done better – finding answers through exploration and courage. Just as importantly, you will embody our values in everything you do: always learning, be kind and care, equality and integrity in all we do, taking responsibility and daring to do it differently.
Fundamentally, you\’ll be passionate about delivering stand-out public services, because we\’re here to make every moment the best it can be for the residents of Oxfordshire.
To apply, you will need:
- A Social Work qualification and current registration with Social Work England
- Considerable direct experience of frontline safeguarding Social Work, including assessment team working, and developing safe plans and interventions.
- You will be able to work with autonomy and ideally will have management experience gained from a statutory child protection service. Experience of supervising of student social workers, family support staff, and/or social workers may also be considered.
- Youwill be able to manage competing demands, be reflective and analytical, and proportionate in yourdecision-making whilst maintaining a clear focus on the best interests of children and vulnerable adults.
- Working knowledge of the Family Safeguarding Model and Motivational Interviewing.
To apply, please visit:Assistant Team Manager – Children\’s Assessment Service | 21 July, 2025 | Jobs and careers with Oxfordshire County Council
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Assistant Team Manager - Children\'s Assessment Service employer: Oxfordshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Oxfordshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Team Manager - Children\'s Assessment Service
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Family Safeguarding Model and Motivational Interviewing techniques. Understanding these frameworks will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles within children's social care. They can provide valuable insights into the organisation's culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your experience that showcase your ability to manage competing demands and make proportionate decisions. This will highlight your suitability for the fast-paced environment of the Children's Assessment Service.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for making a difference in children's lives by engaging with local community initiatives or volunteering in related fields. This hands-on experience can set you apart and reflect your dedication to the values of the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Team Manager - Children\'s Assessment Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Assistant Team Manager position. Highlight your relevant experience in safeguarding and social work in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your qualifications and experiences that align with the role. Emphasise your management experience, frontline safeguarding work, and any relevant training or certifications.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for children's social care and your commitment to making a difference. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you embody the values mentioned in the job description.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your application is clear, concise, and professionally presented to make a strong impression.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxfordshire County Council
✨Show Your Passion for Social Work
Make sure to express your genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of children and families. Share specific examples from your experience that highlight your commitment to safeguarding and supporting vulnerable individuals.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As an Assistant Team Manager, you'll be overseeing social workers. Be prepared to discuss your management style and provide examples of how you've successfully led a team, managed competing demands, and made critical decisions in high-pressure situations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Models
Brush up on the Family Safeguarding Model and Motivational Interviewing techniques. Being able to discuss these frameworks during your interview will show that you are knowledgeable and ready to implement best practices in your role.
✨Emphasise Your Reflective Practice
Highlight your ability to reflect on your practice and learn from experiences. Discuss how you have used feedback to improve your work and how you encourage a culture of learning within your team.
