Senior Support Worker – Children’s Residential Care

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Support Worker to join our Ofsted‑registered children’s residential home in Colchester. You will lead a team caring for 5‑13 year‑olds with emotional and behavioural difficulties, delivering trauma‑informed support in a safe, nurturing environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and supervise residential staff, ensuring high standards of care.
• Manage complex and challenging behaviours using evidence‑based strategies.
• Provide consistent, trauma‑informed support to vulnerable children.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to care plans.
• Collaborate with senior leaders, the Welfare and Development Officer, and the Responsible Individual to promote staff wellbeing.
• Ensure compliance with Ofsted regulations and health & safety policies.

Required profile

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in children’s residential care (essential).
• Previous supervisory or team‑lead experience (essential).
• Strong leadership, resilience, empathy and honesty.
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people.

Required skills

• Behaviour management techniques.
• Team supervision and coaching.
• Residential childcare best practices.

What we offer

• £15.23 per hour plus a £50 sleep‑in rate.
• Free extensive training and a Level 4 qualification after probation.
• Clear progression routes to Deputy and Registered Manager roles.
• Paid DBS and reference checks.
• Free meals, free parking and a pension scheme.
• 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays, annual pay review.
• Employee Assistance Programme, CPD opportunities, mental health first aiders and regular team‑building events.