Team Leader - Children's Residential - Milton Keynes

Team Leader – Children's Residential Care Locations: Milton Keynes Pay: Up to £15 per hour, plus a Medicash Plan Ready to take the next step in children's residential care? Portman Recruitment is recruiting a Team Leader on behalf of our client, who operates children's residential homes supporting young people with learning disabilities (LD) and emotional and behavioural difficulties (EBD) across the South Midlands. Whether you're an experienced Team Leader seeking a fresh challenge or a qualified residential care practitioner ready to step into leadership, we'd love to hear from you. About Our Client Our client is committed to providing safe, nurturing homes where children feel respected, listened to and supported to achieve their potential. Their approach centres on building trusting relationships, developing resilience and celebrating each child's progress. They value approachable leaders who support their colleagues, communicate openly and keep children's well-being at the heart of everyday practice. With opportunities across both LD and EBD homes, there is scope to explore a setting that suits your experience and interests. Your Role Working alongside the Deputy and Registered Manager, you will lead and support Residential Support Workers while remaining actively involved in children's day-to-day care. You will help create a consistent, welcoming home environment and guide your team to deliver care that reflects each young person's individual needs. Key Responsibilities Lead, motivate and support Residential Support Workers, modelling positive and professional practice. Conduct staff supervisions and performance reviews, supporting learning and development. Assist with recruitment, induction, training and rota planning. Support children with daily routines, education, activities and life skills. Build positive relationships with young people, recognising their achievements and encouraging independence. Promote robust safeguarding practice and maintain professional boundaries. Ensure care plans, risk assessments and behaviour support strategies are followed consistently. Support staff with de-escalation and responding calmly to challenging situations. Maintain accurate records and contribute to care planning and reviews. Work collaboratively with families, social workers and other professionals. What You'll Bring Essential: A Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or an equivalent qualification. An enhanced DBS check suitable for working with children and young people. The ability to lead, support and motivate a team. Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures. An understanding of the needs of vulnerable children and young people. Strong communication skills, emotional resilience and a calm approach under pressure. Flexibility to work shifts, weekends and sleep-ins where required. A commitment to learning, professional development and improving outcomes for children. Desirable: Experience supervising or mentoring staff. Experience in regulated residential care, including supporting children with complex needs or challenging behaviour. A Level 5 leadership or management qualification in residential childcare. A full UK driving licence. What's on Offer? Up to £15 per hour. Medicash Plan. Opportunities across LD and EBD children's homes. Applications welcomed from experienced Team Leaders and practitioners ready to progress. A role where your leadership can make a meaningful difference to children and colleagues.