Residential Childcare Support Worker

Polaris Community; Aldershot; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

A well-established residential childcare provider seeks dedicated Residential Childcare Support Workers to foster positive development in young males. This casual role offers flexible hours without contractual obligations while emphasizing the importance of a nurturing environment. Candidates should have relevant qualifications and experience and be ready to support youth in realizing their potential.

Qualifications

• Experience working with teenage boys or challenging behavior.
• Driving license required; public transport may not be viable.
• Willing to engage young people in activities supporting their independence.

Responsibilities

• Provide a caring environment tailored to individual needs.
• Plan activities that stimulate learning and integration.
• Collaborate with local authorities for outstanding care.

Skills

Teamwork

Effective communication

Active listening

Flexibility

Education

Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma

Children and Young People's Workforce NVQ Level

Job description

Client:

Apple Orchard

Location:

Aldershot, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Reference:

f6671d336842

Job Views:

6

Posted:

29.06.2025

Expiry Date:

13.08.2025

Job Description:

We currently have openings for experienced Residential Childcare Support Workers, and would also love to hear from those who are passionate about making a positive and lasting difference to young people, and who are willing to undertake the relevant training and qualifications needed.

Location: Aldershot, Hampshire

Contract: Casual

Specific Hours: Shift Pattern - ad-hoc cover

Apple Orchard has five homes in Surrey and West Sussex. Each home is set in a rural location and offers a comfortable, homely environment for young males aged - years. We are looking for Residential Support Workers to join our team on a casual basis. This opportunity offers flexibility to work hours you can commit to with no contractual obligation.

We aim to help young people develop insight into their experiences so they can move on from their often traumatic past. We support them by providing clear boundaries and achievable goals, using positive reinforcement strategies such as reward charts and free time.

Central to our work is providing high-level nurturing to meet all the basic needs of the young person, fostering a warm and friendly atmosphere that emphasizes supportive relationships and positive attachments.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Provide a caring and motivating environment tailored to individual developmental needs to help young people reach their full potential.
• Plan and prepare activities that meet the needs of the young people, stimulating their learning and integration within the home.
• Stay informed of legislation, guidelines, policies to ensure compliance with the Children’s Act, Children’s homes regulations, and national standards. Be aware of Ofsted guidance regarding the home.
• Observe and assess young people’s progress, keeping accurate records of achievements, behavior, and significant life events. Maintain and update a life book for each young person under your key working responsibilities.
• Collaborate with local authorities and placing authorities to ensure outstanding care.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with parents and carers to support young people’s learning and development, valuing parental involvement where appropriate.
• Be flexible within the home’s working practices, including undertaking domestic tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, and shopping.
• Work alongside the Manager and staff team to fulfill the home’s philosophy.
• Maintain clear, legible, and non-stigmatizing records regarding the young people, distinguishing facts, opinions, and third-party information.

Essential skills:

• Experience working with teenage boys or challenging behavior, with a willingness to develop further.
• Hold a driving license and have access to a vehicle; public transport may not be viable due to the rural location.
• Possess a Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma, Children and Young People's Workforce NVQ Level, or equivalent.
• Willing to engage young people in activities and support their journey towards independence and adulthood.
• Flexible with working hours, able to work days, evenings, and weekends, including shift work with every other weekend off.
• Ability to challenge unacceptable behavior, set firm boundaries, and meet individual needs.
• Teamwork skills, adherence to policies and procedures, effective communication, active listening.

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All staff must share this commitment. Successful applicants will undergo an enhanced DBS check.