Children's Home Deputy Manager

Deputy Manager — KCT Care, Sandwich, Kent

£36,000–£40,000 per annum | Full-Time

At KCT Care, we believe every child deserves a safe, stable, and nurturing place to call home. Based in Sandwich, Kent, we are a specialist two-bed residential children's home supporting young people aged 8 to 16 with learning difficulties and dual diagnosis needs.

We are looking for an experienced and driven Deputy Manager to support our 'Outstanding' Registered Manager in the day-to-day leadership of the home — and to step confidently into that lead role when required. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone ready to take the next step in their career within a small, dedicated, and values-led team.

About the Role

As Deputy Manager, you will work closely alongside our 'Outstanding' Registered Manager to ensure the home operates to the highest standards of care, compliance, and safeguarding. You will be a visible, hands-on leader — supporting your team, championing the young people in your care, and helping to shape a home environment where children truly thrive.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the Registered Manager in the day-to-day running of the home
• Leading the home confidently and competently in the Registered Manager's absence
• Supervising, mentoring, and supporting the support worker team
• Ensuring care plans are of high quality, person-centred, and regularly reviewed
• Maintaining compliance with Ofsted regulations and the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015
• Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every young person at all times
• Contributing to audits, quality assurance, and ongoing service improvement
• Building positive relationships with young people, families, and placing authorities

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 2 years' experience working in a children's residential care setting
• Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (essential)
• Working towards or willing to work towards Level 5 in Leadership & Management
• A thorough understanding of safeguarding, care planning, and Ofsted inspection frameworks
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to motivate and support a team
• Calm, decisive, and resilient — particularly in complex or challenging situations
• Full UK driving licence (preferred)
• Right to work in the UK — we are unable to offer sponsorship at this time

Salary

£36,000–£40,000 per annum, depending on experience

How to Apply

If you are ready to take on a meaningful leadership role and help us build something truly special for the young people in our care, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV to [email protected].

KCT Care is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references in line with Ofsted safer recruitment requirements.

Pay: £36,000.00-£40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Referral programme

Work Location: In person