Children's Residential Care Team Leader

About the role

We are establishing a new not‑for‑profit children’s residential care home in Wimborne, Poole, and are looking for a compassionate Team Leader to help shape the service from day one. You will lead a small team caring for children with learning disabilities, ensuring a safe, nurturing environment where they can thrive.

Key responsibilities

• Build trusting, positive relationships with children and young people.
• Support daily routines including school runs, meals, play and bedtime.
• Promote life‑skill development and independence.
• Lead shifts, including weekend and sleep‑in duties (average four per month).
• Assist with writing care plans, risk assessments and maintaining compliance with Children’s Homes Regulations.
• Manage challenging behaviour using a therapeutic, empathetic approach.
• Conduct staff supervisions and contribute to team meetings.

Required profile

• Experience working in children’s residential or social care settings.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a team and take responsibility for shift management.
• Good knowledge of Children’s Homes Regulations and Quality Standards (or willingness to learn).
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and participate in a sleep‑in rota.
• Strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Required skills

• Understanding of risk assessment and care‑plan documentation.
• Ability to handle challenging behaviour with a therapeutic approach.

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £16.50.
• Opportunity to shape a brand‑new service from the ground up.
• Supportive, family‑run organisational culture.
• Professional development and leadership experience.