Residential Deputy Manager

Overview

Shape lives. Lead with purpose. Build futures in an outstanding home. This role shapes lives in a nurturing environment at Olive House Children’s Home, supported by Southwark Council. Olive House is rated Outstanding by Ofsted and supports up to five children and young people with complex emotional, behavioural, and social needs, often linked to trauma. Our approach is trauma-informed, with a clinical practitioner who works with both the children and the staff, and an education advisor from the Virtual School based in the home two days per week.

We are building on this success and are looking for a Deputy Manager to take Olive House even further.

What You9ll Be Doing as Deputy Manager: you will work alongside the Registered Manager to lead the home and shape a culture where children feel safe, valued, and understood. You will deputise for the Registered Manager as required, ensuring continuity of leadership and oversight of the service in their absence. You will also be responsible for managing and overseeing operational systems and programmes as directed by the Registered Manager.

This includes ensuring care planning, recording and monitoring systems are accurate, consistent and up to date; supporting the implementation and ongoing management of key programmes, frameworks, or initiatives within the home; monitoring compliance with internal systems and regulatory requirements; and supporting staff to use systems effectively to improve outcomes for children.

This is a visible, hands-on leadership role where you will:

• Lead and support staff in delivering high-quality, trauma-informed care
• Influence daily practice and safeguarding decisions
• Ensure consistency, stability, and strong relationships for every child
• Help shape each child s lived experience and long-term progress

You will also deputise for the Registered Manager when required, ensuring strong leadership continuity across the service.

You will join a supportive, forward-thinking service where children are at the centre of every decision and reflective practice is part of everyday work. In return, you will:

• Work in an Outstanding-rated childrens home
• Be part of a values-led leadership culture
• Access career development and progression opportunities
• Make a meaningful, lasting difference every day

We are looking for a confident, emotionally intelligent leader who combines high standards with genuine care. You will bring:

• Experience in residential childrens homes (senior/deputy level desirable)
• QCF Level 4 Diploma in Children, Young People and Families Practitioner (or equivalent), or willingness to work towards it
• Strong understanding of trauma, attachment, and child development
• Knowledge of safeguarding and Ofsted frameworks
• Experience supporting children with emotional and behavioural needs
• Proven leadership, supervision, and team development skills
• Strong communication and decision-making abilities
• Flexibility to work shifts and deputise when required