Job Description: Registered Manager – Children’s Residential Home
Location: Watford (Hertfordshire)
Salary: Competitive (subject to Ofsted registration)
Reporting to: Responsible Individual / Director
Regulator: Ofsted
Job Purpose
To lead and manage a children’s residential home, delivering high-quality, safe, and effective care for children and young people with complex needs, including Autism, Learning Disabilities, and Emotional & Behavioural Difficulties (EBD). The Registered Manager will ensure full regulatory compliance, achieve Ofsted registration, and maintain high standards of care and safeguarding.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Management
- Provide strong leadership and create a child-centred culture
- Lead, motivate, and develop staff teams
- Promote stability and positive outcomes
- Ensure effective supervision and performance management
Ofsted Registration & Compliance
- Lead Ofsted registration and interview process
- Ensure compliance with Children’s Homes Regulations
- Prepare for and manage inspections
- Maintain accurate and audit-ready records
Safeguarding & Child Protection
- Embed safeguarding practices
- Lead investigations and liaise with agencies
- Maintain a safe and nurturing environment
Care Planning & Outcomes
- Oversee care plans and risk assessments
- Ensure outcome-focused care
- Monitor and improve outcomes
Operations & Resource Management
- Manage staffing, rotas, and budgets
- Ensure efficient resource use
- Maintain occupancy and stability
Stakeholder Engagement
- Work with local authorities and families
- Manage referrals and placements
- Build professional relationships
Person Specification
Essential Requirements:
- Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare
- 2–3 years’ managerial experience in children’s residential care
- Ability to pass Ofsted interview
- Attended at least one Ofsted interview/inspection
- Experience with Autism, LD, Complex Needs, or EBD
- Strong safeguarding knowledge
- Understanding of Children’s Homes Regulations
- Leadership and team management experience
- Care planning and risk assessment experience
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Budget and resource management experience
- Inspection readiness and compliance
- Organisational and time management skills
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care
- Enhanced DBS check
Career Progression Opportunity
This role offers a clear pathway to become a Senior Registered Manager within 2–3 years. The successful candidate will progressively take responsibility for 2 children home, overseeing Deputy Registered Managers at each location and contributing to strategic growth.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and bonus potential.
- Relocation package available for the right candidate.
- Professional development and leadership progression opportunities.
Employment Terms
Immediate onboarding with a minimum stipend of £350 per month during the pre-registration phase. Full salary will commence upon successful Ofsted registration and licence approval.
Safeguarding Statement
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and safer recruitment processes.
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