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- Tasks: Support children in a nurturing environment, helping them heal and grow.
- Company: Join Reading Borough Council's Stable Loving Homes service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and fully funded training.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with a supportive team and great career opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives every day.
- Qualifications: Compassionate, resilient, and willing to learn.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Make a real difference - help us create homes where children can heal, grow and thrive. Reading Borough Council is opening three new children’s homes in 2026 as part of our Stable Loving Homes service. These homes will offer safe, nurturing and therapeutic care for children aged 11–17 who need stability, connection and trusted adults around them. We’re building these homes – and the teams that will bring them to life, with start dates expected from May 2026. If you’re compassionate, resilient and child‑centred, we’d love to hear from you. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer.
Our Homes:
- Lime Tree House – Long‑term home for up to 4 children aged 12–17 with needs linked to their emotions and behaviours.
- Oak Tree House – 4‑bed assessment home supporting children aged 12–17 through transition.
- Cherry Tree House – Small therapeutic home for up to 2 children with SEMH needs aged 11–17.
All three share one purpose: giving Reading’s children a stable, loving home in their own community.
What You’ll Do:
- Build strong, trusting relationships that help children feel safe and valued.
- Provide trauma‑informed, nurturing and consistent care.
- Keywork children, supporting independence, routines and emotional growth.
- Encourage education, activities and hobbies.
- Keep care plans, risk assessments and daily records up to date.
- Work collaboratively with families, social workers, schools and health professionals.
- Support children through change, big emotions and important life moments.
- Work on a rota including sleep‑ins, evenings and weekends.
This is work that matters: It’s emotional, rewarding, challenging – and genuinely life‑changing. No two days are the same. The working pattern for these roles is 9.45 pm – 7.15 am.
What We’re Looking For:
- Kind, reliable and child‑focused.
- Calm under pressure and resilient.
- Great communicators.
- Willing to learn and complete the Level 3 Diploma.
- Able to work flexibly as part of a supportive team.
- Hold a driving licence and can drive the home’s vehicle.
- Willing to work shifts including weekends and nights.
Team Reading Values:
- Work Together as One Team – collaborate, support each other and put children first.
- Drive Efficiency – bring ideas, improve practice and use resources wisely.
- Be Ambitious – aim high for yourself and the children you support.
- Make a Difference to Reading – provide the right support at the right time.
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary including shift allowance.
- Strong career progression and leadership pathways.
- Fully funded Level 3 qualification (if required).
- High‑quality training, reflective practice and clinical support.
- 25 days annual leave + Bank holidays (rising to 33 days + Bank holidays with service).
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Life assurance (LGPS members).
- Blue Light Card, as well as a comprehensive range of discounts available through our Team Reading rewards platform.
- Season ticket loan & lease car scheme.
- Supportive, values‑driven environment.
Please note: This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship, so applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Residential Childcare Practitioner - Waking Night- Stable Loving Homes in Reading employer: Reading Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Reading Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Residential Childcare Practitioner - Waking Night- Stable Loving Homes in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the childcare sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to child care and trauma-informed practices. We recommend role-playing with a friend or family member to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for making a difference! During interviews, share personal stories or experiences that highlight your compassion and resilience. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about the children.
✨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 and engaged with our mission of creating stable, loving homes.
We think you need these skills to ace Residential Childcare Practitioner - Waking Night- Stable Loving Homes in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for working with children shine through. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive you to make a difference in their lives. We want to see your genuine commitment to creating stable and loving homes!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Residential Childcare Practitioner. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with our values and the job description. This shows us that you understand what we’re looking for and how you can contribute.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so make sure your key points stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our mission and values while you’re at it!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reading Borough Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Residential Childcare Practitioner. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children aged 11-17 and how trauma-informed care works. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for creating a stable, loving environment.
✨Showcase Your Compassion
During the interview, share personal experiences or examples that highlight your compassion and resilience. Talk about times when you've built trusting relationships or supported someone through a challenging situation. This will show that you genuinely care about making a difference in children's lives.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle emotional situations. Think about how you would support a child through big emotions or important life moments. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Flexibility
Since this role involves working as part of a supportive team, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Also, highlight your willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as this is crucial for the position.