Residential Support Practitioner – Children & Young People (Full-Time)
Exeter (EX1) | £13.50 – £14 per hour + £50 Sleep-in
Sleep-ins required | Driving preferred | - £34k - £35k per year
Want to Make a Real Difference in a Child’s Life?
Are you someone who thrives on making a positive impact in the lives of children and young people?
We’re looking for passionate, resilient, and energetic individuals to join a residential care team in Exeter. You’ll be working in a safe and nurturing children’s home environment, helping to shape young lives through structure, play, emotional support, and guidance.
From calming bedtime routines to adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures – no two days are the same. If you can combine empathy and patience with structure and routine, we want to hear from you.
What’s in it for you?
- £13.50 – £14 per hour (based on qualifications)
- £50 per sleep-in
- £34,416 - £35,693 estimated salary (based on 168 waking hours plus 12 sleep ins per month, usually 2–3 shifts per week)
Shift Pattern
- 24-hour shifts: 8am–8am (with sleep-in)
- Shift includes active hours (8am–10pm) and sleep (10pm–8am)
- Many staff choose to work 2 shifts back-to-back
Key Responsibilities
- Create a safe, stable and nurturing environment for children aged 8–17
- Support daily routines, encourage positive behaviours, and manage challenging situations
- Act as a role model and support young people to gain life skills and independence
- Participate in activities and help promote emotional wellbeing
- Work closely with colleagues to develop and follow care plans
- Maintain accurate records and provide reports as required
About You
- Experience in childcare (Essential)
- Age 21+ (required for OFSTED regulations)
- Calm, active, emotionally resilient and a strong communicator
- Able to work 24-hour shifts (including sleep-ins)
- DBS required (can be processed if not held)
Essential Skills
- Must have experience working with children and young people.
- Full UK driving license.
- Willingness to work a varied rota including evenings, weekends, and sleep-ins.
Benefits
- Frontline leadership support — you’ll never be left alone to figure it out.
- Employee Assistance Programme for emotional & wellbeing support.
- Your Birthday Off — every year, no questions asked.
- Generous Referral Bonus when you help brilliant people join the team.
- Wellness Allowance to support your physical & mental health.
- Extra Annual Leave increasing with service.
- Donation Match Scheme to back causes you care about.
- Fully Funded Qualifications (including Level 3 Residential Childcare Diploma).
- Blue Light Card Access for discounts & perks.
- Access to a Company Vehicle when needed for work.
- Enhanced Pay for Overtime & Festival Periods.
What Happens Next?
This is a two-stage interview process:
- Online video call – scenario and values-based questions
- On-site visit to meet the team
If you’re ready to make a genuine difference and build a rewarding career in residential childcare, apply now!
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £34,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Application question(s):
- Have you worked in a Children's residential home before? If so, how long for?
- Do you drive? If so, do you have your own vehicle?
- Do you have any Right to Work restrictions? (This role can not provide sponsorship)
- Have you Previously worked in any other Childcare setting? (school, residential etc.) If so, how long for?
- Do you have a current DBS? If so, Is it on the update service?
- Do you have a current notice period? If so, how long is it?
- What is your Interview availability?
Work Location: In person
