Location: Chelmsford
Contract: Permanent, Full-time (40 hours per week)
Shift Pattern: Monday to Thursday, 9:45pm – 8:30am (term time only)
Salary: £26,095 – £27,860
Parker Smith Inclusion is proud to be partnering with a well-established residential special school in Essex. The school provides a safe, structured and nurturing environment for children and young people with additional needs. Its residential provision is a key part of supporting pupils’ social, emotional and physical wellbeing, offering a calm and secure setting overnight that complements their daytime education.
We are currently looking to appoint a Residential Night Awake Childcare Officer to join the team. This is a responsible and rewarding role focused on ensuring the safety, wellbeing and comfort of pupils during the night.
The Role
Reporting to the Head of Residential Care, you will take responsibility for supervising and supporting pupils overnight within the residential setting. Key responsibilities include:
- Carrying out regular checks and monitoring pupils throughout the night, responding to any needs or incidents
- Supporting pupils’ health, comfort and welfare, including basic medical oversight and escalating concerns where necessary
- Assisting children during the night, including providing personal care when required
- Following emergency procedures such as fire protocols or contacting emergency services
- Maintaining accurate nightly records, including any incidents, disturbances or medical concerns
- Providing a clear handover to morning staff to ensure continuity of care
- Ensuring the safety and security of the building, pupils and staff at all times
- Remaining awake, alert and vigilant throughout the shift, undertaking additional duties as required
- Attending training, supervision and staff meetings, and completing a Level 3 qualification within three months if needed
- Supporting the upkeep of the residential environment and reporting any maintenance issues
- Adhering to safeguarding, health and safety, and confidentiality procedures at all times
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience working with children or young people, ideally in a residential or SEND setting
- Holds an NVQ Level 3 in Care (or equivalent), or is willing to work towards it
- Has a strong understanding of safeguarding, including relevant legislation and standards
- Demonstrates good knowledge of health and safety and emergency procedures
- Has clear written and verbal communication skills, with attention to accurate record-keeping
- Can remain calm, focused and responsive during night shifts
- Takes a patient, caring and professional approach to supporting young people
- Holds a full driving licence (desirable), with willingness to undertake minibus training
Why Join Us
Parker Smith Inclusion works closely with schools, academies and trusts across the region, matching the right people with the right opportunities. We are committed to supporting both our candidates and our partner schools.
This is an excellent opportunity for a reliable and resilient individual who is passionate about supporting young people to take on a vital role within a residential special school.
If you are looking for a meaningful and rewarding night-time position, we would love to hear from you.
Apply today to find out more.