Location: Chelmsford, Essex
Salary: £26,095 – £27,860 per annum (Scale 6, Points 13–17, dependent on experience)
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time, Term Time Only (36 hours per week)
Shift Pattern:
- Monday–Thursday: 2:00pm – 10:15pm
- Friday: 9:00am – 2:00pm
Parker Smith Inclusion is delighted to be working in partnership with a new residential special school in Chelmsford, providing a safe, structured and nurturing environment for children and young people with additional needs. The school offers weekday residential provision and is committed to creating a positive, family-style setting, where pupils are supported to develop socially, emotionally and academically.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Residential Childcare Officer to join the school’s dedicated residential team. This is an excellent opportunity for a childcare professional ready to step into a senior leadership role within a supportive and well-structured residential setting.
The Role
As a Senior Residential Childcare Officer, you will take a key leadership role within the residential provision. Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting the Head of Residential to lead afternoon and evening shifts
- Overseeing and participating in daily childcare duties, maintaining high standards of care and safeguarding
- Supervising and supporting Residential Childcare Officers, including staff induction, mentoring and formal supervision
- Acting as a positive role model, creating a secure, structured and nurturing environment for pupils
- Working directly with children and young people to support their social, emotional and behavioural development through planned activities and day-to-day interactions
- Supervising mealtimes, recreational activities and bedtime routines, promoting a calm and supportive atmosphere
- Accompanying pupils to appointments and community activities when required
- Maintaining accurate records and producing clear, detailed reports contributing to pupils’ wider care and education plans
- Participating in staff training, team meetings and ongoing professional development
- Ensuring full compliance with safeguarding legislation, including Keeping Children Safe in Education and the National Minimum Standards for Residential Special Schools
About You
The ideal candidate will bring experience, leadership and empathy to the role. You will have:
- Experience working with children and young people, ideally within a residential or SEND setting
- A Level 3 qualification in childcare or a related field (or willingness to work towards one)
- A good understanding of relevant legislation, including the Children Act and safeguarding procedures
- Strong behaviour management skills and the ability to remain calm, authoritative and nurturing
- Excellent organisational skills and confidence in managing challenging situations
- A genuine commitment to the wellbeing, safety and development of children and young people
- A full UK driving licence (desirable); minibus driving experience or willingness to train is an advantage
Why Work with Parker Smith Inclusion?
Parker Smith Inclusion works closely with schools, academies and trusts across the region, building strong relationships with senior leaders to ensure the right match between professionals and settings. We provide ongoing support throughout the recruitment process and beyond.
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to take on senior responsibilities within a residential special school, supported by clear expectations, high-quality training and a collaborative team environment.
Interested?
If you are an experienced childcare professional ready to take the next step in your career and make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people, we would love to hear from you.
Apply today to find out more about this exciting opportunity.