Registered Manager – Children’s Residential Home

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.