About the Role
Our client, a renowned non-profit organisation committed to the well-being of children and youth, is seeking a dedicated Child and Youth Care Practitioner to join their dedicated team in Cape Town, Western Cape . This role is central to providing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for young individuals facing various challenges. You will be responsible for implementing daily routines, facilitating developmental activities, and offering emotional support to ensure the holistic growth of each child. This is a hands‑on position requiring significant engagement and a genuine passion for making a positive impact on young lives in the Cape Town community. The successful candidate will work closely with a multidisciplinary team, contributing to case management and the overall success of our residential care programs. We are looking for an individual who can bring creativity, patience, and a strong ethical framework to this vital role.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct care, supervision, and emotional support to children and youth in a residential setting.
- Implement daily schedules, including mealtimes, educational activities, and recreational pursuits.
- Facilitate therapeutic and developmental group activities designed to enhance social, emotional, and cognitive skills.
- Maintain a safe, clean, and structured living environment for all residents.
- Observe and document the behaviour, progress, and needs of each child.
- Collaborate with social workers, therapists, and educators to develop and implement individual care plans.
- Manage challenging behaviours constructively and implement positive discipline strategies.
- Serve as a positive role model, demonstrating healthy coping mechanisms and interpersonal skills.
- Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and ongoing professional development.
- Ensure compliance with all organisational policies, procedures, and relevant legislation concerning child protection.
Requirements
- A relevant qualification such as a National Certificate or Diploma in Child and Youth Care Work, Social Work, or a related field.
- Previous experience working directly with children and youth in a care setting.
- Demonstrated ability to build rapport and establish trusting relationships with young people.
- Understanding of child development principles and common behavioural challenges.
- Excellent observational and reporting skills, with attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently.
- Patience, empathy, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility.
- Willingness to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as required for the Cape Town location.
- Valid First Aid and CPR certification is advantageous.
- Clear criminal record and adherence to child protection protocols.
Benefits
- Our client offers a meaningful career opportunity with a competitive remuneration package and comprehensive benefits.
- This includes a provident fund, paid annual leave, and access to ongoing training and development programs designed to enhance your skills in child and youth care.
- You will be part of a supportive team environment that values collaboration and professional growth.
- We provide regular supervision sessions to support your well-being and professional development.
- The opportunity to work within the vibrant Cape Town community and contribute to the positive development of young lives is a significant aspect of this role.
- We also offer opportunities for career advancement within the organisation for dedicated and high-performing individuals.