Head of Care
| Posting date: | 11 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £37,740 to £39,694 per year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 13 March 2026 |
| Location: | Billingshurst, Southern, RH14 |
| Company: | Salutem Care and Education |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 59170553 |
Summary
About The Company
Ingfield Manor School is a non-maintained residential special school and part of Salutem Care and Education who have services across England and Wales supporting adults and children in residential and educational Environments.
Based in its our own idyllic grounds, Ingfield Manor School offers extensive specialist facilities with the aim to provide an exceptional learning environment, helping children and young people fulfil their potential. Facilities include woodland and outdoor classroom space, high specification sensory room and swimming pool.
At Ingfield Manor School, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to live a healthy, active, and fulfilling life, regardless of their background or disability. The aim of our services is to provide a safe and stimulating environment that enables children and young people to flourish and grow.
Our IMS provision caters for students aged 3—19 years with neurological motor impairment such as Cerebral Palsy and associated medical and sensory needs. Following the Conductive Education approach, Ingfield Manor School focuses on the holistic development of everyone, including their physical and communication skills.
Acorns is the nine‑bedded residential provision at Ingfield Manor School, offering overnight and short‑break stays, Monday - Friday during term time only for children and young people aged 7 to 19. Our accommodation is bright, modern and designed to feel homely and supportive, helping our children and young people feel comfortable and at ease during their stay. With well‑equipped bedrooms and a variety of communal lounge, dining and activity spaces, Acorns provides plenty of opportunities for socialising, relaxing and building independence in a warm, welcoming environment.
We are immensely proud of our school and our community. We are committed to providing the very best for young people while they are with us, helping them to develop the knowledge, skills, confidence and aspiration to succeed throughout their lives. We know that our staff team make the school and residential provision what it is today and are the key to a successful future. Staff are well supported by the leadership team and are offered opportunities to progress. We know that each and every one of our staff have a pivotal role to play and we believe in supporting everyone to fulfil their potential. Ingfield Manor School is a rewarding place to work, and staff report high levels of job satisfaction.
Through working for Salutem we offer a comprehensive range of employee benefits designed to support you in various aspects of your life through our benefits platform Salutem Extras.
Some of these benefits include free online GP access for you and your family, ensuring that healthcare is readily accessible when you need it most. Additionally, our free employee assistance programme extends its support to both you and your partner, providing essential services such as counselling, financial advice, and legal guidance.
Ingfield Manor School has convenient road links and is a 10 minute drive from Horsham. There is a bus stop 10 minute walk from the school, a large car park for those travelling by car.
New employees joining Ingfield Manor School are guaranteed a warm welcome from the community. Our motto is ‘Fulfilling Potential’ and we strongly believe that this should include our entire school community. We look forward to getting to know you better and helping you to play your part in providing the very best to our young people.
About The Role
Head of Care
Contract: Term‑time only (39 weeks)
Salary: £37,740–£39,694
Start Date: 20 April 2026
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Care to lead our dedicated team and ensure exceptional care, support, and experiences for the children and young people within our residential setting. This is an exciting opportunity for a strong leader who is committed to promoting positive outcomes, independence, and a safe, nurturing environment aligned with our school’s ethos and values.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Operational Management
- Provide compassionate, child‑centred leadership to a multidisciplinary care team.
- Ensure the residential provision operates effectively and in line with National Minimum Standards.
- Lead on the development, delivery, and review of the provision’s Statement of Purpose.
- Work with senior leaders to maintain policies and procedures compliant with legislation and best practice.
- Foster a positive, supportive environment for both staff and young people.
- Oversee Health & Safety requirements, including risk assessments and adherence to company policies.
Supporting Children & Young People
- Lead on the assessment and admission process for all new children entering the provision.
- Oversee care plans, risk assessments, and behaviour support plans tailored to each individual.
- Ensure collaborative care planning with children, families, social workers, and professionals.
- Promote an environment where children feel safe, valued, and able to express their views.
- Coordinate recreational, social, and community activities with appropriate risk assessments.
- Ensure a consistent programme of meaningful, age‑appropriate experiences promoting growth and independence.
- Maintain a clean, welcoming, personalised residential environment.
- Support preparation for adulthood through personalised independence planning.
- Work closely with the nursing team to meet all health needs.
- Promote inclusion, independence, and active community participation.
Safeguarding & Compliance
- Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL).
- Ensure robust safeguarding practices are always followed.
- Maintain full regulatory compliance and support Ofsted inspection readiness.
- Monitor quality assurance processes, including manager reports.
- Embed a strong safeguarding culture within the provision.
Staff Management & Development
- Support with recruitment, onboarding, and training of support staff.
- Ensure staff receive appropriate CPD opportunities.
- Conduct regular supervisions and appraisals.
- Ensure team adherence to organisational policies and the Statement of Purpose.
- Drive continuous improvement through audits and quality assurance processes.
- Manage staffing levels and respond to emergencies to keep shifts safely covered.
- Participate in an on‑call rota during term‑time (Monday–Friday).
Professional Conduct
- Maintain high standards of professionalism, ethics, attendance, and punctuality.
- Uphold and promote the school’s ethos, policies, and practices.
- Work within relevant statutory and professional frameworks.
Multi‑Agency Collaboration
- Build positive relationships with external partners including Local Authorities, health professionals, parents, and Ofsted.
- Advocate for the needs and rights of children and young people.
Financial & Administrative Responsibilities
- Support with managing budgets, resources, and staffing effectively.
- Ensure accurate record‑keeping in line with GDPR and data protection.
- Provide reports on the performance and outcomes of the provision.
Additional Information
This job description is not exhaustive. The post holder may be required to take on other duties appropriate to the role. Regular review of the job description will ensure it remains relevant, with consultation on any changes.
Salutem Care and Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to rigorous safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS.
A minimum 6‑month probation period applies.
Our Core Values:
➡️Supportive: Helping everyone reach their full potential.
➡️Ambitious: Striving for the best outcomes.
➡️Loyal: Prioritising our staff and the people we support.
➡️Unique: Innovating without compromising quality.
➡️Transparent: Fostering openness and mutual respect.
➡️Engaging: Partnering with everyone involved.
➡️Meaningful: Offering fulfilling opportunities.
Why Choose Us?
✅Emotional Support: 24/7 Employee Assistance, mental health resources, meditation apps, and bereavement support.
✅ Medical Support: Free Online GP access, Health Cash Plan, Cancer Cover, and Menopause support.
✅ Financial Support: Flexible pay with Wagestream, utility bill savings, Money Helper, and Life Assurance.
✅ Physical Support: Online workouts, Cycle to Work scheme, gym discounts, and National Trust activities.
Still not convinced?
We have been recognised as a Top Employer 2025 in the United Kingdom.
We have been named as a Top 50 Inspiring Workplace UK & Ireland
We are a Disability Confident Committed company.
Salutem Care and Education is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well-being of children, young adults, and vulnerable individuals. As part of our safer recruitment process, the successful candidate will be required to complete thorough pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS and, where applicable, overseas criminal record checks.
Ingfield Manor School is a non-maintained residential special school and part of Salutem Care and Education who have services across England and Wales supporting adults and children in residential and educational Environments.
Based in its our own idyllic grounds, Ingfield Manor School offers extensive specialist facilities with the aim to provide an exceptional learning environment, helping children and young people fulfil their potential. Facilities include woodland and outdoor classroom space, high specification sensory room and swimming pool.
At Ingfield Manor School, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to live a healthy, active, and fulfilling life, regardless of their background or disability. The aim of our services is to provide a safe and stimulating environment that enables children and young people to flourish and grow.
Our IMS provision caters for students aged 3—19 years with neurological motor impairment such as Cerebral Palsy and associated medical and sensory needs. Following the Conductive Education approach, Ingfield Manor School focuses on the holistic development of everyone, including their physical and communication skills.
Acorns is the nine‑bedded residential provision at Ingfield Manor School, offering overnight and short‑break stays, Monday - Friday during term time only for children and young people aged 7 to 19. Our accommodation is bright, modern and designed to feel homely and supportive, helping our children and young people feel comfortable and at ease during their stay. With well‑equipped bedrooms and a variety of communal lounge, dining and activity spaces, Acorns provides plenty of opportunities for socialising, relaxing and building independence in a warm, welcoming environment.
We are immensely proud of our school and our community. We are committed to providing the very best for young people while they are with us, helping them to develop the knowledge, skills, confidence and aspiration to succeed throughout their lives. We know that our staff team make the school and residential provision what it is today and are the key to a successful future. Staff are well supported by the leadership team and are offered opportunities to progress. We know that each and every one of our staff have a pivotal role to play and we believe in supporting everyone to fulfil their potential. Ingfield Manor School is a rewarding place to work, and staff report high levels of job satisfaction.
Through working for Salutem we offer a comprehensive range of employee benefits designed to support you in various aspects of your life through our benefits platform Salutem Extras.
Some of these benefits include free online GP access for you and your family, ensuring that healthcare is readily accessible when you need it most. Additionally, our free employee assistance programme extends its support to both you and your partner, providing essential services such as counselling, financial advice, and legal guidance.
Ingfield Manor School has convenient road links and is a 10 minute drive from Horsham. There is a bus stop 10 minute walk from the school, a large car park for those travelling by car.
New employees joining Ingfield Manor School are guaranteed a warm welcome from the community. Our motto is ‘Fulfilling Potential’ and we strongly believe that this should include our entire school community. We look forward to getting to know you better and helping you to play your part in providing the very best to our young people.
About The Role
Head of Care
Contract: Term‑time only (39 weeks)
Salary: £37,740–£39,694
Start Date: 20 April 2026
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Care to lead our dedicated team and ensure exceptional care, support, and experiences for the children and young people within our residential setting. This is an exciting opportunity for a strong leader who is committed to promoting positive outcomes, independence, and a safe, nurturing environment aligned with our school’s ethos and values.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Operational Management
- Provide compassionate, child‑centred leadership to a multidisciplinary care team.
- Ensure the residential provision operates effectively and in line with National Minimum Standards.
- Lead on the development, delivery, and review of the provision’s Statement of Purpose.
- Work with senior leaders to maintain policies and procedures compliant with legislation and best practice.
- Foster a positive, supportive environment for both staff and young people.
- Oversee Health & Safety requirements, including risk assessments and adherence to company policies.
Supporting Children & Young People
- Lead on the assessment and admission process for all new children entering the provision.
- Oversee care plans, risk assessments, and behaviour support plans tailored to each individual.
- Ensure collaborative care planning with children, families, social workers, and professionals.
- Promote an environment where children feel safe, valued, and able to express their views.
- Coordinate recreational, social, and community activities with appropriate risk assessments.
- Ensure a consistent programme of meaningful, age‑appropriate experiences promoting growth and independence.
- Maintain a clean, welcoming, personalised residential environment.
- Support preparation for adulthood through personalised independence planning.
- Work closely with the nursing team to meet all health needs.
- Promote inclusion, independence, and active community participation.
Safeguarding & Compliance
- Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL).
- Ensure robust safeguarding practices are always followed.
- Maintain full regulatory compliance and support Ofsted inspection readiness.
- Monitor quality assurance processes, including manager reports.
- Embed a strong safeguarding culture within the provision.
Staff Management & Development
- Support with recruitment, onboarding, and training of support staff.
- Ensure staff receive appropriate CPD opportunities.
- Conduct regular supervisions and appraisals.
- Ensure team adherence to organisational policies and the Statement of Purpose.
- Drive continuous improvement through audits and quality assurance processes.
- Manage staffing levels and respond to emergencies to keep shifts safely covered.
- Participate in an on‑call rota during term‑time (Monday–Friday).
Professional Conduct
- Maintain high standards of professionalism, ethics, attendance, and punctuality.
- Uphold and promote the school’s ethos, policies, and practices.
- Work within relevant statutory and professional frameworks.
Multi‑Agency Collaboration
- Build positive relationships with external partners including Local Authorities, health professionals, parents, and Ofsted.
- Advocate for the needs and rights of children and young people.
Financial & Administrative Responsibilities
- Support with managing budgets, resources, and staffing effectively.
- Ensure accurate record‑keeping in line with GDPR and data protection.
- Provide reports on the performance and outcomes of the provision.
Additional Information
This job description is not exhaustive. The post holder may be required to take on other duties appropriate to the role. Regular review of the job description will ensure it remains relevant, with consultation on any changes.
Salutem Care and Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to rigorous safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS.
A minimum 6‑month probation period applies.
Our Core Values:
➡️Supportive: Helping everyone reach their full potential.
➡️Ambitious: Striving for the best outcomes.
➡️Loyal: Prioritising our staff and the people we support.
➡️Unique: Innovating without compromising quality.
➡️Transparent: Fostering openness and mutual respect.
➡️Engaging: Partnering with everyone involved.
➡️Meaningful: Offering fulfilling opportunities.
Why Choose Us?
✅Emotional Support: 24/7 Employee Assistance, mental health resources, meditation apps, and bereavement support.
✅ Medical Support: Free Online GP access, Health Cash Plan, Cancer Cover, and Menopause support.
✅ Financial Support: Flexible pay with Wagestream, utility bill savings, Money Helper, and Life Assurance.
✅ Physical Support: Online workouts, Cycle to Work scheme, gym discounts, and National Trust activities.
Still not convinced?
We have been recognised as a Top Employer 2025 in the United Kingdom.
We have been named as a Top 50 Inspiring Workplace UK & Ireland
We are a Disability Confident Committed company.
Salutem Care and Education is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well-being of children, young adults, and vulnerable individuals. As part of our safer recruitment process, the successful candidate will be required to complete thorough pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS and, where applicable, overseas criminal record checks.