At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to empower children and families through engaging activities and consultations.
- Company: Foster Care Associates, a supportive family of fostering agencies dedicated to children's welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company car or allowance, generous leave, pension, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and young people, strong communication skills, and team leadership experience.
- Other info: Join a passionate community focused on positive outcomes for children and families.
The predicted salary is between 28500 - 40000 £ per year.
Foster Care Associates (FCA) is an established fostering agency which forms part of the Polaris Community, one of the UK's largest leading communities of children's service providers. Today, we are one of the country's largest and most experienced independent fostering agencies.
We are seeking someone who is passionate about working with children and young people and supporting them to make a difference in their community. This is an exciting opportunity that involves leading a dynamic team to deliver a service to children and families that puts young people at the forefront.
- To lead and manage a team in establishing strong consultation systems with foster children, foster carers and their birth children, through a programme of activities, events, and other creative mechanisms.
- To work with the Registered Manager and regional management team in developing the agency's Participation Strategy.
- To supervise two members of staff.
- To lead on groups, events and activities specifically for children and young people.
- To represent the region in relation to Participation within the Polaris community and with external stakeholders.
- Arranging activities and workshops for children in our care and children who foster.
- Forge close and productive working relationships with colleagues, Foster Parents, external professionals and multi-agency networks.
- Attendance at meetings with Professionals from Education, Health and Social Services sectors to support our Children and Young People's care plans.
- Complete reports and maintain clear records.
- Provide support and guidance to our families and help promote the stability of foster placements.
About You:
- Ideally you will have experience of working with children and young people, supporting and advocating to ensure their voices are heard.
- You will be expected to demonstrate passion and aspiration for our children and young people to help them reach their full potential.
- You will have some previous experience of leading a team or projects to ensure the service is delivered.
- Ideally you will possess a relevant qualification or evidence of formal training in childcare, childhood studies, education, social work, youth work, community work and/or psychology.
- You will be able to demonstrate excellent communication skills, with an ability to communicate with and present to children and adults and build strong connections.
- You will need to demonstrate an ability to remain calm when under high levels of pressure, emotionally traumatic situations and when dealing with difficult or confrontational behaviour.
- You will be expected to possess good written skills and IT skills to include Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint) and databases.
- You will need to have a full driving licence and unrestricted access to a vehicle.
- You will be willing to undertake an Enhanced DBS check.
Foster Care Associates is an equal opportunities employer and has been awarded the disability confident employer by the jobcentre plus. The successful applicant will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.
Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering) in Park Hill employer: The FCA
Contact Detail:
The FCA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering) in Park Hill
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fostering community, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching FCA's values and mission. Show them you're not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for supporting children and families. Tailor your responses to reflect how you align with their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on articulating your experiences and how they relate to the role of Senior Participation Officer. Confidence is key!
✨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 the FCA family and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Participation Officer (Children & Families - Fostering) in Park Hill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Specs Carefully: Before you start writing your application, make sure you’ve read through the job description thoroughly. We want to see how your experience aligns with what we’re looking for, so highlight those relevant skills and experiences!
Show Your Passion: We’re all about making a difference in the lives of children and young people. Make sure your application reflects your passion for this work! Share any experiences that showcase your commitment to supporting kids and families.
Be Clear and Concise: When it comes to written applications, clarity is key! Keep your sentences straightforward and avoid jargon. We want to understand your thoughts easily, so get straight to the point while still being engaging.
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. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The FCA
✨Know the FCA Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Foster Care Associates thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and the specific challenges they face in fostering. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Children
As a Senior Participation Officer, your passion for working with children and young people is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've made a positive impact on children's lives. Be ready to discuss how you can advocate for their voices and needs within the organisation.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects or teams in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate others and create a supportive environment for both staff and children.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle difficult situations. Think about potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would approach them. This will demonstrate your readiness to tackle the complexities of fostering.