Assistant Manager

Assistant Manager

Kirkby Stephen Full-Time 30000 - 48000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team to provide exceptional care for children in residential settings.
  • Company: Wilderness Way is dedicated to shaping brighter futures through innovative care and collaboration.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of annual leave, private medical insurance, and gym discounts.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in residential childcare and a Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People’s Workforce required.
  • Other info: Join a forward-thinking organisation where your voice matters and career progression is encouraged.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 48000 ÂŁ per year.

Overview

Join Our Supportive Team as an Assistant Manager and Make a Difference. We are seeking an experienced Assistant Manager to join our team in residential childcare. This role is ideal for a Deputy Manager, Assistant Manager, or Senior Residential Support Worker looking to take the next step in their career. You will work alongside the Registered Manager to deliver high-quality care and support for children who have suffered trauma and may struggle to manage their emotions and behaviour in healthy ways. Your leadership will ensure that children’s needs are met and that the team is fully supported in delivering exceptional care.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and supervise a team of Residential and Senior Residential Support Workers, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.
  • Support the Registered Manager in ensuring the care and safety of children across four separate homes.
  • Create a safe space for children to develop, learn, and flourish, working within their placement plans and goals.
  • Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team, including therapists, education specialists, and assessment leads.
  • Ensure children\\\’s care plans are clearly communicated and adhered to by all team members.
  • Provide leadership and guidance to the team, ensuring that safeguarding and regulatory requirements are met.

A Rewarding Package

  • Salary: Up to ÂŁ43,000 (discussed based on experience and qualifications).
  • Annual Leave: 33 days, with extra days for continuous service at 2 and 5 years.
  • Flexibility: 40-hour workweek (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) with the occasional need for flexibility.
  • Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, Medicash plan, 24/7 GP access, cashback on optical/dental treatments, and gym discounts.
  • Recognition & Rewards: Bonuses for referrals (ÂŁ1,000 per successful referral) and monthly Wilderness Heroes awards.
  • Financial Security: Pension contributions and life assurance (2x salary).
  • Discounts: High street savings, leisure perks, and tailored local discounts.

A Culture of Growth

  • Opportunities to develop through coaching, industry-recognised qualifications, and career progression pathways.
  • Be part of an innovative organisation, leading in therapeutic and assessment-based residential care.
  • A workplace driven by Collaboration, Adaptability, Respect, and Empathy—where your voice matters.

Key Qualities We Look For

  • Proven experience in residential childcare as an Assistant Manager, Deputy Manager, or Senior Residential Support Worker.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People\\\’s Workforce (or equivalent).
  • A strong understanding of safeguarding children and relevant legislation.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
  • Passion for supporting children with emotional and behavioural challenges.
  • Proficient IT skills with a willingness to learn new tools.
  • Full, valid UK driving licence for manual vehicles.

Join the Wilderness Movement

At Wilderness Way, we’re shaping brighter futures through innovation, care, and collaboration. If you’re ready to be part of a forward-thinking organisation where every child—and every team member—matters, we want to hear from you.

Click “Apply Now” to register your details or contact us at recruitment@awwltd.com. We’ll guide you through our simple application process.

All roles will be subject to a successful disclosure at an appropriate level from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Access NI or Disclosure Scotland as we follow safer recruitment processes. Proof of identity will also be required. We are an equal opportunities employer.

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Assistant Manager employer: WILDERNESS WAY

Wilderness Way is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of both its staff and the children in their care. With a supportive work culture that values collaboration, respect, and empathy, employees benefit from generous annual leave, private medical insurance, and opportunities for professional growth through coaching and recognised qualifications. Located in the picturesque Kirkby Stephen, this role offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children while enjoying a fulfilling career in residential childcare.
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Contact Detail:

WILDERNESS WAY Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Assistant Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by children in residential care. Understanding trauma-informed care will not only help you relate to the role but also demonstrate your commitment to supporting vulnerable children.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the childcare sector, especially those who have experience in residential settings. Engaging with others can provide valuable insights and may even lead to referrals that could boost your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you would foster a positive team environment. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a team or supported colleagues in challenging situations.

✨Tip Number 4

Research Wilderness Way’s values and mission. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs during an interview can set you apart as a candidate who truly fits their culture.

We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Manager

Leadership Skills
Communication Skills
Mentoring Skills
Understanding of Safeguarding Legislation
Emotional Intelligence
Team Collaboration
Problem-Solving Skills
IT Proficiency
Adaptability
Experience in Residential Childcare
Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People's Workforce
Ability to Create Safe Environments
Knowledge of Care Plans
Full UK Driving Licence

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in residential childcare, particularly any roles as an Assistant Manager or Senior Residential Support Worker. Emphasise your leadership skills and any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to support children with emotional and behavioural challenges.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for working with children and your understanding of the challenges they face. Mention how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities of the role and express your enthusiasm for contributing to the team at Wilderness Way.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you clearly list your Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People’s Workforce (or equivalent) in your application. If you have additional qualifications or training related to safeguarding or child development, be sure to include those as well.

Showcase Your Soft Skills: In your application, highlight your communication, mentoring, and leadership skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully led a team or supported colleagues in a challenging environment, as these qualities are essential for the Assistant Manager role.

How to prepare for a job interview at WILDERNESS WAY

✨Show Your Passion for Childcare

Make sure to express your genuine passion for working with children, especially those who have faced trauma. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Discuss your approach to mentoring and supporting team members, as well as how you handle challenges within a team setting.

✨Understand Safeguarding Practices

Familiarise yourself with current safeguarding legislation and practices. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure the safety and well-being of the children in your care, as this is a critical aspect of the role.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Anticipate scenario-based questions that may be posed during the interview. Think about how you would handle specific situations involving children’s emotional and behavioural challenges, and be prepared to articulate your thought process.

Assistant Manager
WILDERNESS WAY
Location: Kirkby Stephen

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