Assistant Manager

Wilderness Way; Carlisle; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

A residential childcare organization in Carlisle seeks an Assistant Manager to lead a team in providing high-quality care for children. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills and experience in residential childcare, along with a Level 3 Diploma. This role offers a competitive salary and extensive benefits, including private medical insurance and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Private Medical Insurance

Bonuses for referrals

Pension contributions

Gym discounts

Qualifications

• Proven experience in residential childcare as an Assistant Manager, Deputy Manager, or Senior Residential Support Worker.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding children and relevant legislation.
• Full, valid UK driving licence for manual vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of Residential and Senior Residential Support Workers.
• Support the Registered Manager in ensuring the care and safety of children.
• Provide leadership and guidance ensuring team's compliance with children's care plans.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Safeguarding knowledge

Emotional support for children

IT skills

Education

Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People’s Workforce

Job description

Assistant Manager – Residential Child Care

Base pay range: Up to £43,000 (discussed based on experience and qualifications).

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of Residential and Senior Residential Support Workers, fostering a positive and collaborative environment.
• Support the Registered Manager in ensuring the care and safety of children across four separate homes.
• Create a safe space for children to develop, learn, and flourish, working within their placement plans and goals.
• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team, including therapists, education specialists, and assessment leads.
• Ensure children's care plans are clearly communicated and adhered to by all team members.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the team, ensuring that safeguarding and regulatory requirements are met.

Rewarding Package

• Annual Leave: 33 days, with extra days for continuous service at 2 and 5 years.
• 40‑hour workweek (Monday to Friday, 9am‑5pm) with occasional flexibility.
• Private Medical Insurance, Medicash plan, 24/7 GP access, cashback on optical/dental treatments, and gym discounts.
• Bonuses for referrals (£1,000 per successful referral) and monthly Wilderness Heroes awards.
• Pension contributions and life assurance (2× salary).
• High street savings, leisure perks, and tailored local discounts.

Culture of Growth

• Opportunities to develop through coaching, industry-recognised qualifications, and career progression pathways.
• Part of an innovative organisation, leading in therapeutic and assessment-based residential care.
• Workplace driven by Collaboration, Adaptability, Respect, and Empathy—where your voice matters.

Key Qualities We Look For

• Proven experience in residential childcare as an Assistant Manager, Deputy Manager, or Senior Residential Support Worker.
• Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People’s Workforce (or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of safeguarding children and relevant legislation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
• Passion for supporting children with emotional and behavioural challenges.
• Proficient IT skills with a willingness to learn new tools.
• Full, valid UK driving licence for manual vehicles.

At Wilderness Way, we’re shaping brighter futures through innovation, care, and collaboration. If you’re ready to be part of a forward‑thinking organisation where every child—and every team member—matters, we want to hear from you.

Click ‘Apply Now’ to register your details or contact us at [e-mail]. We’ll guide you through our simple application process.

All roles will be subject to a successful disclosure at an appropriate level from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Access NI or Disclosure Scotland as we follow safer recruitment processes. Proof of identity will also be required. We are an equal opportunities employer.