Apprentice Support Worker – Short Breaks & Respite

About the role

Beaulieu House is an Ofsted-rated Good children's home and short breaks service supporting children and young people with disabilities, complex needs, and behaviours that challenge. This apprenticeship role offers a structured entry point into residential childcare, working alongside an experienced team to help children and young people live fulfilling lives, build independence, and enjoy meaningful experiences.

The service is child-centred, tailoring activities, support, and care around each young person's interests, strengths, and aspirations. Young people access a wide range of outings and adventures — including Legoland, Blackgang Chine, Marwell Zoo, Amazon World, and more — alongside day-to-day support with routines, personal care, and community access. Every day looks different, and the team is committed to creating positive memories and enjoyable experiences.

This is a 22-hours-per-week, two-year fixed-term apprenticeship contract, with a permanent position offered upon successful completion. The role includes working evenings, weekends, and bank holidays, with enhanced pay rates applicable for those shifts.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting children and young people with daily routines and personal care
• Promoting independence and life skills, and supporting access to activities, education, and community opportunities
• Building positive relationships with children, families, and professionals
• Assisting with medical and health-related needs following training
• Maintaining accurate records and contributing to care planning

To arrange an informal discussion or visit Beaulieu House before applying, contact Richard Evans (Registered Manager) at richard.evans@iow.gov.uk or on 01983 533024. Applications must be submitted online by the closing date of 22 November 2026.

About You

No previous experience in care is required to apply for this role. The apprenticeship is designed to provide full training, guidance, and qualification support from the outset, so what matters most is the right attitude and commitment to supporting children and young people.

The ideal candidate will:

• Have no requirement to hold prior qualifications in care — a willingness to work towards the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare and the Children, Young People and Families Practitioner Level 4 qualification is what is expected
• Be caring, compassionate, and genuinely motivated to support children and young people to achieve their potential
• Communicate well with children, families, and colleagues, and work effectively as part of a team
• Demonstrate resilience and a positive outlook when working with children who have complex needs or behaviours that challenge
• Be enthusiastic about learning and committed to ongoing professional development throughout the apprenticeship

The Isle of Wight Council is an equal opportunities employer and actively encourages applications from all cultures, backgrounds, and abilities, to better reflect the diversity of the local community. The council is a Disability Confident employer: candidates who declare a disability and meet the essential requirements of the role will be offered an interview.

Appointment is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check with barred list, in line with the council's commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share in this commitment. The council does not currently hold a licence to sponsor overseas workers; applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Isle of Wight's Offer to You

Beaulieu House has been recognised by Ofsted for the quality of care children receive and the commitment of its staff, who support children to develop confidence, independence, and enjoyable life experiences. The team has a strong track record of career progression: many members have gone on to become shift supervisors, deputy managers, registered managers, and social workers.

As an Apprentice Support Worker, you will receive a comprehensive induction, fully funded apprenticeship qualifications, and access to professional training including Safeguarding, First Aid, PROACT-SCIPr-UK® (Positive Behaviour Support), and Trauma Awareness. The wider Isle of Wight Council benefits package includes:

• 32 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Discounted Solent ferry travel and Island bus network discount
• Cycle to work scheme and staff parking permit scheme
• Discounted Isle of Wight sports and leisure gym membership
• Relocation support of up to £8,000 may be available for eligible candidates, with a mainland commuter travel allowance also available subject to criteria
• And more, including national and local discounts and an Employee Assistance Programme