Scheme Manager

Scheme Manager - Oysterfields, St Albans

£34,320 per annum

Are you a compassionate and dynamic leader looking to make a meaningful difference? We are seeking a dedicated Scheme Manager to join our team and help shape a supportive environment where young people feel empowered to build brighter futures.

In this role, you will work closely with the management team to ensure the smooth day‑to‑day running of our home, while driving forward innovative ideas that strengthen our services. Through a respectful and inclusive approach, you will champion our commitment to creating a place where young people and colleagues alike feel valued, heard and supported.

Candidates will ideally have 1 year's management experience and at least 2 years' experience working within the care and supported housing field or with young people.

Lead and inspire a dedicated team to empower vulnerable young people to develop independence and fulfil their potential, working compassionately alongside social workers and other professionals.

Use a positive, respectful approach to help young people build essential life skills such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting and confidence‑building, supporting their resilience and transition to independence.

Encourage young people to take part in education, employment, training and volunteering, promoting inclusion and ensuring every individual has opportunities to thrive.

Work collaboratively with external agencies to provide a joined‑up and supportive journey for each young person.

Lead and support Senior Support Workers, Support Workers and Night Supervisors to deliver high‑quality, compassionate care.

Oversee staff rotas, annual leave and sickness cover to ensure smooth operational delivery.

NVQ Level 5 in Children & Young People or equivalent, or willingness to achieve this qualification in the workplace.

Experience supporting young people facing complex challenges, including behavioural issues, mental health needs or substance misuse.

Experience assisting young people navigating the Home Office asylum process.

Strong understanding of Psychologically Informed Environments (PIE) and how they support compassionate, relational practice.

Ability to adapt communication to individual needs, ensuring young people feel respected, understood and engaged.

Willingness to work across various community locations and adapt to diverse needs.

Commitment to continuous learning, reflective practice and collaborative improvement.

A car driver with access to a vehicle and business car insurance.

Understanding of, or willingness to learn, Ofsted regulations, with experience maintaining high standards in youth support settings.

• Generous annual leave allowance of 33 days per year, rising to 35 with service (pro rata)
• £34,320 salary
• Annual bonus based on satisfactory performance
• Monthly attendance bonus
• Blue Light Card:
  Access to discounts for local and national retailers
• Commitment to health and wellbeing through the Five Ways to Wellbeing
• Opportunities for training and professional development
• Workplace pension scheme and life assurance of three times annual salary
• Access to an employee assistance helpline

The Young People's Separated Migrant Children (SMC) Services team is committed to providing empowering, inclusive and psychologically informed environments for young people aged 16-18 under the care of the Local Authority. We strive to create safe, compassionate and respectful spaces that support growth, resilience and positive change, while meeting Ofsted requirements.

Hightown is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Successful candidates will require a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check, along with any other relevant recruitment checks.

We are an Equal Opportunities & Disability Confident Employer.