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.

Key Responsibilities Empowerment and Support

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.

Skill Development

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.

Meaningful Engagement

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

Collaborative Working

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

Team Leadership

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

Operational Management

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

Qualifications and Experience Educational Background

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

Relevant Experience

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

Asylum Process Experience

Experience assisting young people navigating the Home Office asylum process.

Commitment to PIE

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

Interpersonal Skills

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

Flexibility

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

Professional Development

Commitment to continuous learning, reflective practice and collaborative improvement.

Driving Requirements

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

Regulatory Knowledge

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

Benefits

• 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.