Senior Residential Care Office
Salary/Rate:PAYE Only
Job type:Contract
Town/City:Chelmsford
County:Essex
Type of Role:Teaching Assistant/Learning Support Assistant
Job ref:11011
Post Date:20.11.25
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Meet Our Recruiter
About the Role
Location: Chelmsford
Contract: Permanent, Full-time, Term time only (36 hours per week)
Shift Pattern: Monday–Thursday 2:00pm – 10:15pm, Friday 9:00am – 2:00pm
Salary: Scale 6 (Points 13–17), dependent on experience
Parker Smith Inclusion is proud to be working with a new residential special school in Chelmsford that provides a safe, structured and nurturing environment for children and young people with additional needs. The school offers residential provision during the week and places a strong emphasis on creating a positive, family-style setting where pupils can develop socially, emotionally and academically.
We are seeking a Senior Residential Childcare Officer to join their experienced residential team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in residential childcare or special education who is ready to take on a leadership role within a supportive and well-structured environment.
The Role
As a Senior Residential Childcare Officer, you will:
- Take a senior role within the residential team, supporting the Head of Residential to lead afternoon and evening shifts.
- Oversee and participate in childcare duties, ensuring the highest standards of care and safeguarding are maintained.
- Supervise and support Residential Childcare Officers, including staff induction, mentoring and formal supervision.
- Act as a positive role model, leading by example to create a secure, structured and stimulating environment for pupils.
- Work directly with children and young people to support their social, emotional and behavioural development, both through planned programmes and everyday interactions.
- Supervise mealtimes, recreational activities and bedtime routines to ensure a calm, safe and nurturing atmosphere.
- Accompany pupils to appointments and community activities as required.
- Keep accurate records and write clear reports, contributing to the wider care and education plans for each child.
- Participate in staff training, team meetings and professional development to maintain high standards of practice.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant safeguarding legislation, including Keeping Children Safe in Education and the National Minimum Standards for Residential Special Schools.
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
- Experience of working with or caring for children and young people, ideally in a residential or SEN setting.
- A relevant Level 3 qualification in childcare or a related field (or a willingness to work towards this).
- Knowledge of relevant legislation such as the Children Act and safeguarding procedures.
- Strong behaviour management skills and the ability to act with authority while remaining nurturing and supportive.
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
- A commitment to the wellbeing, safety and development of children and young people.
- A full driving licence is desirable, as is the ability to drive a minibus (or willingness to train).
Why Work With Us
Parker Smith Inclusion has long-standing relationships with schools, academies and trusts across the region. We work closely with senior leaders to match professionals to the right settings, supporting both candidates and schools throughout the recruitment process.
This role offers a rewarding opportunity to take on senior responsibilities in a residential special school setting, with ongoing training, clear expectations and strong team support.
If you are an experienced childcare professional looking 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 discuss this exciting opportunity.
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On-site parking
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Apply Today
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Over 350 5 Star Google reviews – check them out!
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We work via PAYE, not umbrella companies.
Ongoing support from application to placement – we’re with you every step of the way.
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