Children's Residential Care Home Manager
We are seeking a committed and compassionate Children’s Home Manager to establish and lead Sagewood House, a new four-bed residential care home in Winchester. This is a fantastic opportunity to create a warm, supportive environment where children feel safe, build resilience, and form positive relationships.
You will oversee the Ofsted registration process, ensure the highest standards of care for children with emotional and behavioural needs, and lead a dedicated staff team. Experience managing a children’s home and navigating Ofsted registration is essential.
What We Offer:- Competitive salary
- Annual Leave: 33 days inclusive of bank holidays
- Performance bonuses & annual pay review
- Company pension scheme
- Ongoing CPD, including leadership development and specialist training
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Enhanced DBS covered
- Free parking / On-site parking
- Blue Light Card eligibility
- Referral programme
- Beautifully refurbished, comfortable workplace
- A unique opportunity to establish and lead a new children’s home
- Supportive working environment with a small-scale provider dedicated to high-quality care and staff well-being
- Lead the setup of the care home, creating a stable and supportive environment tailored to the needs of each child.
- Oversee the Ofsted registration process, ensuring the home meets all regulatory and quality standards.
- Foster a culture of kindness, empathy, and understanding, while building rapport and positive relationships with children, staff, and stakeholders.
- Ensure the care provided is always child-centred, valuing children’s perspectives and placing their well-being at the heart of all decisions.
- Develop and implement a robust Statement of Purpose, promoting resilience, growth, and positive experiences.
- Build and nurture a dedicated team of staff, inspiring them to be positive role models and deliver high-quality care.
- Work collaboratively with external support networks and families to ensure holistic, needs-led care for each child.
- Prioritise safeguarding and well-being, implementing practices that foster a safe and nurturing environment.
- At least 2 years’ experience as a Registered Manager of a children’s home, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality, child-centred care.
- Experience supporting children with emotional and behavioural needs, including managing challenging behaviours with empathy and consistency.
- Demonstrable experience of successfully leading a home through the Ofsted registration process.
- Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or equivalent).
- Full driving license and own vehicle
- Enhanced DBS Disclosure
- Knowledge of residential care policies, procedures, and compliance requirements.
- Experience in care planning, risk assessment, and multi-agency working.
- Strong understanding of safeguarding, child protection, and the needs of looked-after children.
- Awareness of equality, diversity, and children’s rights.
- Compassionate and empathetic leadership, inspiring and motivating others.
- Committed to building positive relationships and valuing children's voices.
- Creates a nurturing environment through consistency and emotional security.
- Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
Sagewood House is a values-driven organisation committed to well-being, collaboration, and excellence in care. As part of our leadership team, you will play a vital role in shaping a new service, creating a nurturing environment, building positive relationships, and empowering children to thrive.
If you’re looking for a rewarding role where your leadership will have a real impact, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply: Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining why you would be great for this role to admin@sagewoodhouse.co.uk