At a Glance
- Tasks: Create a nurturing environment and support young people in their daily lives.
- Company: Apple Orchard, a caring organisation with a focus on youth development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, employee discounts, and fully funded training.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for career growth and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with teenagers or willingness to learn; Level 3 qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 14523 - 16343 € per year.
Company: Apple Orchard
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract: Part-Time, permanent
Starting salary: £14,523.27 pro rata (£29,046.53 FTE) per annum with the potential to earn up to £16,343.27 with sleep‑in shifts
Salary after probation: Base salary of £15,126.18 pro rata (£30,252.35 FTE) per annum with the potential to earn up to £16,946.18 with sleep‑in shifts
Specific Hours: 20 hours per week - shift pattern
- Company pension
- Access to our Exchange Employee Discount Scheme
- Access to wellbeing programmes via our Exchange Provision
- Promotion opportunities
- Fully funded training for your recognised qualifications
Apple Orchard runs five rural residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, offering warm, supportive environments for boys aged 12–18. We’re looking for experienced Support Workers and those passionate about making a positive impact, with training provided. Our focus is helping young people make sense of difficult past experiences through clear boundaries, achievable goals, and positive reinforcement. We pride ourselves on creating nurturing, friendly homes where strong relationships and consistent care help every young person thrive.
Duties and responsibilities:
- Provide a caring, supportive environment tailored to each young person’s needs.
- Plan and deliver activities that promote learning and positive engagement.
- Follow all relevant legislation and regulatory guidance.
- Observe and record young people’s progress, including maintaining life books.
- Work collaboratively with local authorities, parents, and carers.
- Support daily household tasks and the smooth running of the home.
- Contribute positively to a consistent, supportive team.
- Maintain clear, professional, and non‑judgemental records.
Essential skills:
- Experience working with teenagers or challenging behaviours (or a willingness to learn).
- Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (our homes are rural).
- Level 3 qualification in Residential Childcare or equivalent, or willingness to work towards it.
- Ability to engage young people in activities and support them toward independence.
- Flexibility to work a mix of days, evenings, and weekends (every other weekend off).
- Confident in setting boundaries and managing behaviour appropriately.
- Strong teamwork skills and ability to follow handovers and tasks.
- Able to follow policies and maintain accurate written and verbal communication.
- Good listener with the ability to engage effectively.
If you feel that you could use your skills to support this work through creating a caring and stimulating environment allowing for a range of opportunities and life experiences for the young people, then we want to hear from you.
Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.
Residential Childcare Support Worker (20 hours) employer: Polaris Community
Apple Orchard is an exceptional employer located in the picturesque Horsham, West Sussex, offering a nurturing and supportive work environment for those passionate about making a positive impact on young lives. With a commitment to employee growth through fully funded training and promotion opportunities, alongside benefits such as a company pension and access to wellbeing programmes, we foster a culture of teamwork and compassion. Join us in creating a warm home for young people, where your contributions truly matter and every day brings meaningful experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Support Worker (20 hours)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the childcare sector, especially those who work at Apple Orchard. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to working with young people. Think about your experiences and how they align with the values of Apple Orchard.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've positively impacted young people's lives. This will demonstrate your commitment to their well-being.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the Apple Orchard team.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Support Worker (20 hours)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with teenagers and challenging behaviours. We want to see how your skills align with our mission of creating a supportive environment for young people.
Show Your Passion:Let us know why you’re passionate about working with young people. Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a positive impact in their lives. We love hearing genuine stories!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget 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. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris Community
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Apple Orchard. Understand their mission, values, and the specific needs of the young people they support. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in making a positive impact.
✨Showcase Your Experience with Young People
Be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have working with teenagers or challenging behaviours. If you don’t have direct experience, think about transferable skills from other roles or situations where you've supported young people. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
✨Demonstrate Your Teamwork Skills
Since this role involves working collaboratively with a team, be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've contributed positively to a team environment and how you handle handovers and communication effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to manage behaviour and set boundaries. Think about how you would respond to various situations involving young people, and be ready to explain your thought process and the rationale behind your decisions.
