Residential Childcare Support Worker

Job description

Residential Support Worker

Company : Apple Orchard

Location: Horsham, West Sussex

Contract: Full Time, permanent

Specific Hours: 40 hours per week - shift pattern

Starting Salary: Base salary of £29,046.53 with the potential to earn up to £30,866.53 with sleep‐in shifts

Salary after probation: Base salary of £30,252.35 with the potential to earn up to £32,072.35 with sleep‐in shifts

What We Offer
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

About Apple Orchard
Apple Orchard runs five residential homes across Surrey and West Sussex, offering calm, therapeutic environments for boys aged 12-18 who have experienced trauma or disruption. Our focus is on helping young people heal, grow and reach their full potential. You'll join a supportive, dedicated team that values compassion, resilience and teamwork. Whether you're experienced or new to residential childcare, if you're passionate about making a positive difference, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Do
Provide a safe, nurturing and supportive home environment
Plan and lead activities that build confidence, skills and positive routines
Form stable, trusting relationships that help young people move toward independence
Keep clear, accurate records of behaviour, progress and achievements
Work with local authorities and external professionals to maintain excellent care standards
Be an active, supportive member of a dedicated, energetic team

What We're Looking For
Essential: A genuine passion for making a positive difference in young people's lives
Experience working with teenagers or challenging behaviours (preferred)
Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends and sleep‐ins
Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (needed due to rural locations)

Desirable: Level 3 Residential Childcare/Families Practitioner/Health & Social Care qualification - or willingness to work towards it
Ability to manage behaviour with calmness, empathy and consistency
Strong written and verbal communication skills
A team‐focused attitude, good sense of humour and emotional resilience
Confidence following procedures, writing reports and contributing to care plans

Apple Orchard is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to a DBS check at enhanced level if successful for the position.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Billingshurst

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

07-06-2026

Profession type

Counselling and Social Services

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English