Trainee Children's Residential Support Worker in London

CANDL Academy | Register your interest for our 2027 Residential Ready programme

Have you worked in a pupil referral unit (PRU), an SEN school or youth work? If you’re looking to move into children’s residential care, our Residential Ready programme will help you build on your experience and prepare for a paid role as a Residential Support Worker.

Who should apply?

• PRUs and alternative provision: Behaviour mentors, teaching assistants and pastoral support staff.

• SEN schools and specialist settings: SEN teaching assistants and learning support assistants.

• Youth work: Youth workers, outreach workers and mentors.

• Care and family support: Care assistants, support workers and family support workers.

Previous experience in a children’s home isn’t required. We’re looking for people who can build trust with young people, stay calm in challenging situations and maintain clear professional boundaries.

You’ll need a suitable Enhanced DBS certificate for the children’s workforce registered with the DBS Update Service, or be willing to apply for a new DBS check. All safer recruitment checks must be completed before you attend sessions in the home.

What does the programme involve?

1. A trainer will support you through the theory modules, and an assessor will review your work and give you feedback. You’ll need to pass every module before progressing to the home visits. Topics include safeguarding, professional boundaries and the day-to-day responsibilities of a Residential Support Worker.

2. Once your checks are complete, you’ll attend four voluntary, supervised sessions at a partner children’s home, each lasting one to two hours. You’ll get to know the team, see how the home runs and learn how staff support young people in their daily lives.

3. Receive feedback from the home and complete your final assessment to earn your CANDL Academy certificate.

What happens after the programme?

If your host home has a suitable vacancy and you both want to move forward, you can be considered for a paid Residential Support Worker role there. If a role at your host home doesn’t work out, we’ll help match you with suitable paid vacancies at other children’s homes.

How to apply

Apply through CV-Library with your CV and a consultant will be in touch to discuss next steps.

CANDL Recruitment | Shaping Brighter Futures