At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide compassionate care and support to children with disabilities in a residential setting.
- Company: Beechside Short Break Service, dedicated to child-centred care and teamwork.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and make a real difference in young lives.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and professional development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help children thrive while building meaningful relationships.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in childcare and experience in residential settings required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 β¬ per year.
Beechside Short Break Service provides care and short break accommodation for up to six young people aged between 5 - 18 years. The service is tailored to meet individual children's needs, that have a learning or a physical disability, often alongside communication needs. If you believe in child centered care, teamwork, compassion, and creating positive experiences for young people, we would love to hear from you.
About the Role
The key part of the role is working directly with children and young people. The role requires a child centered approach and ability to build warm, strong and positive relationships with our children and young people. You will be responsible for the day-to-day care of up to six children with a range of complex needs. You will be expected to apply relevant legislation, policies and procedures and guidance relating to residential childcare. You will be expected to work alongside other professionals such as social workers, schools and therapists to provide a consistent team approach to manage care & risk and attend meetings with young people or represent the team at meetings. You will work alongside children by helping them to achieve their specific individual needs and improving their future outcomes. You will be required to input information into the client database and carry out other related administrative tasks. Within the role you will also be required to attend meetings with young people or represent the team as appropriate.
Ideal Candidate
- You will need relevant qualifications and experience in residential childcare, along with a strong understanding of safeguarding and the needs of children, including those with disabilities.
- The role requires excellent communication and relationship-building skills, the ability to work under pressure, make sound decisions, and support children's development.
- You should be adaptable, proactive in your own development, and capable of working both independently and as part of a team, with strong written and verbal skills.
- Holding a QCF Level 3 Diploma in residential childcare or equivalent qualification.
- Professional experience of working in a residential children's setting.
- Aware of the needs of children with learning and physical disabilities.
- Sound experience of key working.
- Ability to work under pressure and make decisions to safeguard children, the service and staff.
- Knowledge of how to safeguard and support children in a short breaks service.
- Ability to form warm and positive relationships with children to support their development and positive experiences.
- Ability to actively support children and encourage children to grow and flourish to their full potential.
- Excellent communication skills, as you will be required to liaise with other agencies, parents, colleagues, and children.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Standard/Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. You will need to explain any gaps in your career history within the last 5 years - this is essential for all safeguarding roles. You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it. We are not able to offer sponsorship for this position.
Senior Children's Home Carer - Beechside Short Break Service in Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth City Council
Beechside Short Break Service is an exceptional employer dedicated to providing a nurturing environment for both its staff and the young people in its care. With a strong emphasis on teamwork, compassion, and professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children with complex needs. Located in a supportive community, the service offers a unique opportunity to engage in child-centred care, ensuring that every day brings rewarding experiences and the chance to contribute positively to the future of vulnerable young individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Adviceπ€«
We think this is how you could land Senior Children's Home Carer - Beechside Short Break Service in Portsmouth
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Beechside Short Break Service and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you would handle specific situations involving children with complex needs. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Children's Home Carer - Beechside Short Break Service in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application π«‘
Show Your Passion for Child-Centred Care:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your commitment to child-centred care. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted children's lives, especially those with disabilities, to show us you truly understand their needs.
Tailor Your Experience to the Role:We want to see how your qualifications and experience align with the role. Be sure to mention your relevant qualifications, like the QCF Level 3 Diploma, and any hands-on experience in residential childcare that showcases your ability to support children with complex needs.
Communicate Clearly and Confidently:Strong communication skills are key in this role, so make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, concise language and structure your thoughts well. This will not only help us understand your experience but also demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. Itβs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youβre considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our values and what we stand for at Beechside Short Break Service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
β¨Know Your Child-Centred Care
Make sure you understand the principles of child-centred care. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these principles in your previous roles, especially when working with children who have disabilities. Share specific examples that highlight your ability to build strong relationships with young people.
β¨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
Since this role involves working alongside other professionals, be prepared to talk about your experience in a team setting. Highlight instances where you collaborated with social workers, schools, or therapists to achieve positive outcomes for children. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
β¨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills under pressure. Think of situations where you had to safeguard children or manage complex needs. Practise articulating your thought process and the actions you took to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in your care.
β¨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Excellent communication is key in this role. During the interview, focus on speaking clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would liaise with parents, colleagues, and other agencies. Good communication skills will not only help you in the interview but are essential for building relationships with the children and their families.