Residential Childcare Support Worker

Apple Inc.; Roundstreet Common; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A residential care provider in the UK is seeking a dedicated Support Worker to provide a safe and nurturing environment for young people aged 12-18. Responsibilities include planning activities and fostering positive relationships. Ideal candidates will have a passion for youth development and experience in caregiving. Key benefits include a competitive salary and professional growth opportunities. Flexible shifts are required to accommodate the needs of the young individuals in care.

Benefits

Competitive salary and sleep-in allowances

Every other weekend off

Fully funded qualifications

Company pension

Access to employee discount programs

Qualifications

• A passion for making a positive impact on young lives.
• Experience working with challenging behaviors preferred.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle required.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive home environment.
• Plan and lead engaging activities to promote development.
• Build trusting relationships guiding young people toward independence.

Skills

Working with teenagers

Flexibility in working shifts

Strong communication skills

Team player

Ability to manage behavior

Education

Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma

NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care

Job description

As a Support Worker, you'll play a vital role in the daily life of the young people we care for. You'll:

• Provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive home environment
• Plan and lead engaging activities to promote development and confidence
• Build trusting, stable relationships with young people, guiding them toward independence
• Keep clear and accurate records of behaviour, progress, and achievements
• Collaborate with local authorities and external professionals to ensure excellent standards of care
• Work as part of a committed, energetic team - supporting each other and contributing to a positive home culture

Essential

• A passion for making a positive impact on young lives
• Experience working with teenagers or challenging behaviours (preferred)
• Flexibility to work varied shifts (including evenings, weekends, and sleep‑ins)
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (essential due to rural locations)

Desirable

• Hold Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner Diploma/Children and Young People’s Workforce/NVQ Level 3 in Health & Social Care or equivalent – or be willing to work towards a required qualification
• Ability to manage behaviour with calmness and empathy
• Strong communication skills – both written and verbal
• A team player with a good sense of humour and emotional resilience
• Ability to follow procedures, write reports, and contribute to care plans

Apple Orchard operates five residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, set in peaceful rural surroundings. We provide nurturing, therapeutic homes for boys aged 12‑18, many of whom have experienced significant trauma or disruption in their early lives. You'll help young people heal, grow, and reach their potential. You'll be part of a team that celebrates small wins, values individual contributions, and provides a safe, caring environment for everyone – including staff.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and sleep‑in allowances (£35 per night, typically one per week)
• Every other weekend off
• Fully funded qualifications and professional development
• Clear promotion pathways and career progression
• Company pension
• Access to employee discount and wellbeing programmes