Residential Childcare Practitioner - Open Homes

Do you want to make a difference to the most vulnerable children in care and help them flourish and achieve their potential? If so, this could be the role for you!

As a Residential Childcare Practitioner, you will work with the children who often have complex needs as well as their families. You will support the children’s development and wellbeing. You can also take a lead on specialist areas and projects such as healthy eating to support improvements across the service. This role gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in East Sussex.

We understand that the great care we provide is down to the great staff we have. We provide a comprehensive induction process to teach you all the skills and knowledge you need. We also provide an apprenticeship in the level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, with off the job training time and all course fees paid for by the Council. If you want to develop a career working with children there are also a range of development opportunities, including further apprenticeship opportunities to support your career aspirations.

We are looking for people who:

• Have experience working with children and young people
• Are interested in child development and eager to learn
• Can work effectively as part of an integrated childcare team
• Treat residents with dignity and respect, maintaining confidentiality at all times

Progression to Single Status 8 requires that you already have a level 3 qualification in Residential Childcare or equivalent, and that you will take on additional responsibilities

Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.

To apply for this role, please follow the ‘Apply Now’ button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.

For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page and our statement on the use of AI.

Unfortunately, we are unable to progress applications of people who are on a visa or require sponsorship at this time.

Interviews will take place in person in Eastbourne within two weeks of closing date.

Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.

All staff are trained and supported to deliver their roles professionally, with a strong focus on safeguarding. You’ll work in a role where your vigilance, respect, and professional curiosity help keep children safe, supported, and able to thrive.

'There are a whole range of different skills people can bring to the role. I find the work very rewarding and enjoy the variety this type of work brings.' - Gary, Day Service Support Worker

We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.

For an informal discussion about this opportunity contact Mandy McDonald – [email protected]

A workforce for the community, from the community

We warmly welcome applications from all sections of the community. We but particularly encourage those from group that are underrepresented in our current workforce:

Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, those who are disabled, men and those who identify as LGBTQ+. We are working towards recruiting a workforce that reflects our community because we recognise the unique skills, experience and perspective that each individual brings.

For putting your skills to good use, choose East Sussex!

Additional Information

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record. Please note that we require evidence of an overseas police check if you have lived or worked abroad.

Your starting salary will be pro rata if the above position is part-time or term-time only.

If you require sponsorship to work in the UK please let the hiring manager know this in your application so we can check eligibility for sponsorship for the role. For further information please go to https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas

If you require any reasonable adjustments, due to disability, to enable you to participate fully in the process please contact the hiring manager on the contact details above.