Registered Manager- Childrens Residential

WILDERNESS WAY; Kendal; On-site; GBP 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Welcome Bonus

Relocation support

33 days holiday

Private Medical

GP access

Refer a Friend bonus

Pension & life assurance

Career progression

Mentor pairing

90-day induction

Job summary

Wilderness Way is recruiting an operational leader to manage two Ofsted-registered homes in the Appleby in Westmorland area and surrounding locations. The role focuses on delivering relationship-based care within a small, high-impact setting and leading with a supportive, collaborative approach.

You will be paired with an experienced mentor, enrolled in Level 5 qualifications, and guided through a structured induction to ensure a successful start and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years experience in children’s residential care, social work, or secure care within the last 5 years.
• Strong understanding of SCCIF and care regulations.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Willingness to work toward Level 5 qualification.

Responsibilities

• Manage two Ofsted-registered solo homes with individual registrations.
• Provide 2:1 relationship based care.
• Collaborate with HRBP, Recruiters, Compliance and Learning teams to support staff development.

Skills

Leadership

Relationship building

Regulatory knowledge

Driving licence

Education

Level 3 qualification

Level 5 qualification

Job description

Why Registered Managers Choose Wilderness Way?

Because we do things differently.

Hear Kirsty’s story in our short video: Watch the Reel

Our homes are small, specialist and high impact - built on relationships, not routines. We give our leaders the tools, support and freedom to create real, lasting change for children who need it most.

We live by our values - Collaboration, Adaptability, Respect and Empathy - and we back them up with real investment in our people, our homes and the future.

This role is based in Appleby In Westmorland and surrounding areas.

Homes Built for Care

• Managing two Ofsted-registered solo homes, each with individual registrations
• 2:1 relationship based care
• Set shifts + a full year’s rota

You’re Never Leading Alone

• Operational Manager supporting you day to day
• Assistant Managers in each dual registration
• Your own HRBP, Recruiters and Compliance teams, and Learning Partner helping staff complete L3 qualifications
• Quality & Safeguarding Team Empowering you with practical safeguarding advice and compliance support to deliver brilliant care
• Referrals Team: Bringing the right children to the right home through thoughtful, needs‑led matching.

“They didn’t just support me — they lifted me every step of the way.” Registered Service Manager Sarah –

Looking for your next step in care leadership?

If you have at least 2 years experience in children’s residential care, social work, or secure care within the last 5 years we’d love to hear from you!

Here’s how we will support you

• Pair you with an experienced mentor
• Enrol you on your Level 5 qualification straight away
• Give you a structured 90-day induction to set you up for success
• You’ll have clear pathways for supervision, career progression, and ongoing development, plus support from an Operation’s Manager every step of the way.

What You’ll Bring

• Strong understanding of SCCIF and care regulations
• Level 3 qualification (or equivalent)
• Level 5 qualification (or willingness to work towards it)
• Resilient, relationship-focused leadership style
• A full UK driving licence

What’s In It For You

• Up to £59,802 per annum
• £5,000 Welcome Bonus*
• Relocation support up to £8,000*
• 33 days holiday, plus loyalty days
• Private Medical, Medicash & 24/7 GP access
• £1,000 Refer a Friend bonus
• Clear progression pathways & leadership development
• Pension, life assurance & retail discounts
• Terms and conditions apply

At Wilderness Way, we’re committed to equality and the safety of children in our care. If you’re ready to make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you. This role is subject to necessary background checks, including an Enhanced DBS, Access NI, or Disclosure Scotland