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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in a nurturing environment and lead a dedicated care team.
- Company: Join The Caldecott Foundation, transforming lives for over 110 years.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, career development, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to supporting all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare and experience in a children's residential setting.
The predicted salary is between 33273 - 43797 £ per year.
Location: Smeeth, Ashford
Salary & Sleep-in Payments: £33,273.24 to £43,797.00 (includes payment for 2 sleep-ins per week, dependent on experience and based on either our 39-hour or 45-hour contract options)
About Us
For over 110 years, The Caldecott Foundation has been helping children build a future. We provide homes, schools and therapeutic services for children and young people who have experienced trauma, adversity and disrupted relationships. We focus on creating safe, nurturing and playful environments where young people can develop life skills, grow in confidence, enjoy new opportunities and feel a genuine sense of belonging.
About the Role
As a Senior Residential Care Worker, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the home. You’ll lead by example, guide the team, and help ensure high standards of care, safety and support for children and young people. You will work closely with the Registered Manager and Deputy Registered Manager, contributing to assessments, care planning and the delivery of consistent, high-quality support across the home. This role includes working a rota and participating in sleep-in duties.
What Kind of Person We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who is confident, compassionate and committed to helping young people feel safe, understood and supported. You’ll be able to:
- Lead and support colleagues as part of a collaborative team
- Build trusting, positive relationships with young people
- Stay calm, reflective and grounded in challenging situations
- Guide others in trauma-informed practice and child-centred care
- Communicate clearly and contribute to reports, records and assessments
- Meet the practical demands of the role, including working a rota and participating in sleep-ins
- Drive Foundation vehicles to transport young people to activities and appointments
Key Responsibilities
As a Senior Residential Care Worker, you will:
- Support the Registered Manager and Deputies with the day-to-day running of the home
- Lead and guide the staff team to maintain high standards of care and safeguarding
- Contribute to assessments, care planning and reviewing young people’s needs
- Provide consistent support to young people during times of stress or crisis
- Maintain a safe, nurturing and positive home environment
- Ensure young people are informed, involved and supported in planning their lives
- Communicate effectively with families, colleagues and external professionals
Essential Experience & Qualifications
You will need to have:
- A Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (or equivalent)
- Proven experience working in a children’s residential setting
- Experience leading or supporting groups of children or young people
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- An understanding of trauma and the impact it can have on behaviour
- A commitment to inclusive, child-centred practice
- A full driving licence
What We Can Give You
- 28 days’ holiday (including bank holidays), rising to 30 days after 3 years
- Career development, including funded qualifications up to master’s level
- Health cashback scheme (covering you and up to four children)
- Pension scheme with up to 5% employer contributions
- Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to retail, food and entertainment discounts
- Cycle-to-work scheme and will writing service
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. The children and young people we support come from many different backgrounds, and we believe our workforce should reflect and celebrate that diversity. We welcome applications from people of all ages, backgrounds and lived experiences who share our commitment to helping children build brighter futures.
Sound Like a Match?
If you’re ready to lead by example, support young people through both challenge and achievement, and help create a safe and nurturing home environment, we’d love to hear from you. Please click apply to be redirected to our website.
Please note: The Caldecott Foundation is committed to safeguarding children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check in line with safer recruitment guidelines.
Senior Residential Care Worker employer: The Caldecott Foundation
Contact Detail:
The Caldecott Foundation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Residential Care Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research The Caldecott Foundation 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.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the role and the team dynamics, which can give you an edge during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to residential care work. Think about your experiences and how they align with the job description, especially around trauma-informed practice and teamwork.
✨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 team and contributing to the amazing work we do.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Residential Care Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. Share personal experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field, as it helps us see your commitment to making a difference.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the role of Senior Residential Care Worker. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your ability to lead and support a team in a nurturing environment.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and concise. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us understand your qualifications and how you can contribute to our team without any confusion.
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’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Caldecott Foundation
✨Know the Organisation
Before your interview, take some time to research The Caldecott Foundation. Understand their mission, values, and the specific challenges they address. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in residential care settings. Prepare specific examples that highlight your leadership skills, ability to support young people, and how you've handled challenging situations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Demonstrate Compassion and Understanding
As a Senior Residential Care Worker, empathy is key. Be prepared to talk about how you build trusting relationships with young people and how you approach trauma-informed care. Share stories that illustrate your compassionate nature and commitment to child-centred practice.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about the team dynamics, the support provided for professional development, or how the organisation measures success in their care practices. This shows your engagement and eagerness to contribute positively.