A little bit about Seashell Trust jobs

Seashell provides education and care through our outstanding school and specialist college. We build communication, independence and life skills, and prepare young people for a future where they are valued and valuable members of the community. Keep reading to learn more about the Seashell Trust jobs available and what is required in a job working with children and young people with learning disabilities.

Internal Applicants

As part of the internal application process, it is essential that you inform your current line manager of your intention to apply.
Please be aware that both your attendance and performance record will be considered during the shortlisting phase for interviews.

Description: Refer a Friend

Type: Permanent

Hours: Dependant on Role

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: Earn £500** when you successfully refer a friend to Seashell

At Seashell we’re committed to providing exceptional education and care. To continue to do so, we need your help to bring in more outstanding individuals like yourselves.
That’s why we’re excited to remind you of our Referral Program, designed to reward you for helping us find the right people for the following positions only, on a permanent contract only:

  • Teaching Assistant
  • Learning Support Assistant
  • Residential Support Worker (Days and Nights)

Do you know someone who would thrive in a supportive and dynamic environment?

If so, consider referring them to join our team! Not only will you be helping Seashell grow stronger, but you’ll also receive some fantastic incentives:

Here’s how it works:

  • Identify Potential Candidates: Think about your friends, family or acquaintances who would be a great fit for our roles. Ensure they meet the basic qualifications and are enthusiastic about making a difference and give their permission to be put forward.
  • Submit a Referral: Complete the official referral form by clicking ‘Apply now’ below.
    Enter your referrals name and details in the box’s, and in the personal statement, enter your name, job title and department. Please also enter the job you are referring them to. You don’t have to submit their CV, but if you do have it, that’s great, and feel free to add it on.
  • Earn Rewards: If your referred candidate completes our hiring process and begins their journey with us and successfully completes their six month probationary period, you’ll receive a £500 reward! ** Subject to the usual tax and NI deductions.

All employees, including bank contract workers are eligible for these referral payments, as long as you are not involved in the hiring process for the referred role.

By participating, you’ll help us build a team that continues to provide the highest level of care and education.
Let’s work together to bring in passionate and qualified individuals who share our commitment to making a positive impact.

Thank you for your continued dedication and support.

Apply

Description: Perm to Bank Application

Type: Bank/Casual

Hours: Dependent on role

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: Hourly rate - dependent on role

Are you leaving Seashell but would like to stay with us as a bank member of staff?

We are always looking to grow our bank team, apply now to confirm your interest!

Here’s how it works

  1. Make your line manager aware – Let your line manager know that you are interested in applying to become a bank member of staff
  2. Apply! – Submit your application here
  3. Meet with your line manager – Your line manager will hold a formal discussion with you to discuss your transfer to bank staff, before the process can begin.
  4. Onboarding – Once you have received confirmation of your resignation, you can be onboarded as a bank member of staff. Complete the new starter forms during your onboarding process to complete your transfer..
  5. Break in service – You will have a two week break in employment with Seashell from your last day as a permanent member of staff. You can pick up bank shifts after two weeks onwards.
  6. Starting – Onboarding will confirm your bank start date and provide instructions of how to book shifts and record hours completed along with any information you may need

If you have any questions, please contact people@seashelltrust.org.uk

Apply

Description: Site Greeter - Bank

Type: Bank

Hours: Shift patterns below

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: Pay aligned to standard Seashell bank rate

Site Greeter cover

We’re looking for team members to help cover our main entrance during upcoming absences through bank shifts/overtime. This is a great opportunity to support our visitors and represent Seashell Trust in a welcoming and professional way. Working to ensure our site is safe and secure whilst providing excellent customer service and practical assistance to our visitors and users of the site.

Shifts available:

Monday to Friday:

  • 7:00am – 1:00pm
  • 1:00pm – 7:00pm

Weekends:

  • 8:00am – 6:00pm

Responsibilities include:

  • Welcoming visitors to site in a helpful, friendly and polite manner
  • Providing clear and accurate directional information
  • Escorting visitors to their destination when appropriate
  • Sharing information about Seashell Trust and its activities
  • Helping to maintain a clean and tidy environment

About you…

  • Ability to work both as part of a team or independently
  • Ability to troubleshoot issues and identify solutions
  • Good customer service skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Enthusiastic, role modelling Seashell’s values
  • Reliable with good time management skills

If you’re interested, please submit your interest with the below information:

  • A short note on why you’re suitable for the role
  • Which shift(s) you’d like to be notified about

For any additional information, please contact people@seashelltrust.org.uk

Apply

Description: Residential Support Worker - Young Adults

Type: Full time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: £13.75 - £13.90 per hour (From September 2026) + benefits

Shift Patterns

Days: A mixture of 7:30am to 3pm and 2:30pm to 10pm with alternate weekends.

Please note, sponsorship is not available for this role

About Seashell Trust

Seashell is a charity dedicated to providing a creative, happy and secure environment for children and young people with complex needs and additional communication challenges from across the UK.

We have 17 home-from-home, four bedroomed houses for children and young people who need residential support. We can provide 24-hour care, weekly and termly boarding, and 52-week placement for individuals aged 3-25 years.

This opportunity is to support either our children aged 3-18 years old or our young people aged 19 to 25 years old. All our homes are based on our one site and so no travel is required.

About the role

As a Residential Support Worker, you will play a vital role in creating a safe and nurturing environment for the young people we support. You will:

  • Provide one-to-one and group support to children and young adults
  • Support with personal care, mobility, and daily routines
  • Promote communication, independence, and life skills
  • Support access to education, leisure, and social activities
  • Create a positive and inclusive environment tailored to individual needs

What we’re looking for

  • Previous experience of supporting children or young people with complex needs and challenging behaviours is essential. We will consider personal experience as well at work experience.
  • GCSE A – C in English and Math’s (or equivalent level 3 literacy and numeracy qualification) is essential
  • L4 or L3 QCF Level 3 Diploma Children’s & Young People’s Workforce, NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (CCYP) Diploma or, willingness to complete this
  • Genuine passion for working with children and young people
  • Challenging behaviours will present in this role, so to fully support our young people and staff, candidates should be prepared to work at times in a high-pressured environment. Within our unique induction programme, we providebehaviour management training. Plus, ongoing support once in role.
  • Excellent communication skills
  • A positive attitude and willingness to learn

Seashell Trust Benefits

  • 33 days annual leave per year, including bank holidays (incremental based on length of service).
  • Pension scheme which is 4% matched.
  • Detailed 2-week induction programme for all new employees.
  • Access to our on-site inclusive gym, fitness classes and swimming pool.
  • Blue light discount scheme.
  • Benenden Health Care Membership – access to 24/7 GP, physiotherapy, medical treatments, mental health support including counselling service, cancer support, care planning and social care advice.
  • Access to a wide range of vocational programmes to support you in your job role.
  • Life Assurance (3x Annual base salary) subject to terms and conditions.
  • Cycle to work scheme.
  • Free on-site parking.
  • Paid Enhanced DBS.

About Recruitment at Seashell

Our vision is for the children and young people in our care to be safe, happy and to achieve the best possible outcomes so that they are valued and valuable members of their communities.

We provide an environment that is safeguarded and as part of our safer recruitment policy, successful candidates will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check (no cost) and full references will be taken. This charity is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We value diversity and are committed to equal opportunities. Disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria on the person specification will be guaranteed an interview.

We are a LGBTQA+ friendly employer and welcome applications from all identities.

Enhancements

The enhancement figure is based on working 26 weekends and 4 bank holidays within a 52 week period and are not class as guaranteed earnings.

Apply

Description: Residential Support Worker - Children's Short Breaks Service

Type: Full time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: £13.75 - £13.90 per hour (From September 2026) + benefits

Shifts pattern:
– Day shifts 7:30am–3:00pm & 2:30pm–10:00pm, including alternate weekends

Please note, sponsorship is not available for any of our roles

Are you looking for a rewarding role where you can truly make a difference? At Seashell Trust, we are seeking experienced Residential Support Workers to join our short breaks service, supporting children with complex needs.

About Seashell Trust

Originally founded in 1823, Seashell Trust is a nationally recognised and registered charity based in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport. The Trust comprises of the Royal School Manchester, the Royal College Manchester, 17 bespoke Residential Care Homes, Outreach Health and Family Services. We provide expert Residential care and Education for children and young people with severe, profound, and complex learning difficulties and disabilities, sensory impairments, communication disorders and autism. Our fantastic services are based all on one-site, which deepens our sense of community for our children and young people and the wider Seashell team

About the homes:

We have 17 home-from-home, four bedroomed houses for children and young people who need residential support. We can provide 24-hour care, weekly and termly boarding, and 52-week placement for individuals aged 3-25 years.

We have two short break homes that we use to provide respite care for children and young adults with the most complex needs. This exciting opportunity will be based in our Ofsted registered children’s home, supporting children up to the age of 19.

About the role:

  • Provide one to one and group support to children
  • Support with personal care, mobility, and daily routines
  • Promote communication, independence and life skills
  • Support access to education, leisure, and social activities
  • Create a positive and inclusive environment tailored to individual needs

What we’re looking for:

  • Previous experience of working in a similar environment, supporting children or young adults with challenging behaviours and complex needs is desirable. Personal experience is considered.
  • L4 or L3 QCF Level 3 Diploma Children’s & Young People’s Workforce, NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (CCYP) Diploma or, willingness to complete this
  • Genuine passion for working with children and young people
  • Challenging behaviours will present in this role, so to fully support our children and staff, candidates should be prepared to work in a high-pressured environment. Within our unique induction programme, we provide behaviour management training. Plus, ongoing support once in role.
  • Personal care is a large part of this role and will include showering, bathing, grooming, toileting etc so you must be comfortable with this.
  • Excellent communication skills
  • A positive attitude and willingness to learn

Benefits

  • Detailed 2-week induction programme for all new employees
  • Access to our on-site inclusive gym, fitness classes and swimming pool
  • Blue light discount scheme
  • Benenden Health Care Membership – access to 24/7 GP, physiotherapy, medical treatments, mental health support including counselling service, cancer support, care planning and social care advice
  • Access to a wide range of vocational programmes to support you in your job role
  • Life Assurance (3x Annual base salary) subject to terms and conditions
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Free on-site parking
  • Paid Enhanced DBS

About Recruitment at Seashell

Our vision is for the children and young people in our care to be safe, happy and to achieve the best possible outcomes so that they are valued and valuable members of their communities.

Our Core Values are represented within the three ‘I’s’ – Integrity, Innovation, and Involvement. We value diversity and are committed to equal opportunities.

Disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria on the person specification will be guaranteed an interview. We are an inclusive employer and welcome all applications.

This charity is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We provide an environment that is safeguarded and as part of our safer recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and full references will be taken.

Apply

Description: Senior Residential Support Worker - Young Adults' Residential Homes

Type: Full time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: Starting salary £29510 (From September 2026) per annum + benefits

Adverts may close early depending on volume of applications received.

Are you passionate about providing exceptional support to others?

We are looking for a committed Senior Residential Support Worker to join our team, supporting our young adults in their homes.

About Seashell Trust:

Originally founded in 1823, Seashell Trust is a nationally recognised and registered charity based in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport. The Trust comprises of the Royal School Manchester, the Royal College Manchester, 17 bespoke Residential Care Homes, Outreach Health and Family Services. We provide expert Residential care and Education for children and young people with severe, profound, and complex learning difficulties and disabilities, sensory impairments, communication disorders and autism. Our fantastic services are based all on one-site, which deepens our sense of community for our children and young people and the wider Seashell team.

About the Residential Homes:

At Seashell, our 17 Residential Homes are purpose-built with a ‘home from home’ feel, we provide 24-hour care, weekly and termly boarding and 52-week placement.

As the Senior Residential Support Worker, you will have the opportunity to be part of this setting, where you can contribute to creating a comfortable and familiar atmosphere for our young adults. This is a great opportunity to work in a collaborative and supportive environment where your support can truly make a difference in the everyday lives of our young adults.

About the Role of Senior Residential Support Worker:

The Senior leads the operational house team of Residential Support Workers to provide person centred care to our young adults with learning disabilities, complex health and social care needs.

The Senior will ensure staff have the resources and support to provide the level and quality of service required day to day, plus the ongoing development and continuous improvement of the service.

As well as providing direct care and support, the Senior is required to act as a Key Worker. They will give supervision and manage performance appraisal for all Support Workers in the home and will provide mentor and coaching support on key operational tasks. Being visible and accessible to support is paramount.

Requirements of the role:

  • Minimum qualification QCF Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People Workforce/Health & Social Care/Adult Care (or equivalent)
  • Previous experience of working in a similar care environment
  • Knowledge of CQC Adult Care Home fundamental standards
  • Good written and verbal communication skills, ability to write and maintain reports / notes and communicate effectively with staff
  • Experience of working with a variety of communication method including PECs, objects of reference and basic signed communication
  • Previous experience as a key worker
  • The ability to record and communicate effectively with parents / staff / other professionals.
  • Ability to work on your own initiative and as part of a team to enable cohesive team working
  • Reliable
  • Flexible approach to work

Benefits of working at Seashell:

  • 33 days annual leave per year, including bank holidays (incremental based on length of service).
  • Detailed 2-week induction programme for all new employees.
  • Access to our on-site inclusive gym, fitness classes and swimming pool.
  • Blue light discount scheme.
  • Benenden Health Care Membership – access to 24/7 GP, physiotherapy, medical treatments, mental health support including counselling service, cancer support, care planning and social care advice.
  • Access to a wide range of vocational programmes to support you in your job role.
  • Life Assurance (3x Annual base salary) subject to terms and conditions.
  • Cycle to work scheme.
  • Free on-site parking.
  • Paid Enhanced DBS

Apply

Description: Lead Teaching Assistant - Outstanding Royal School Manchester

Type: Permanent, Full time

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: £22,983 - £25,537 per annum (From September 2026) + benefits

Closing Date: Adverts may close early depending on application volume

Seashell Trust provides care and education for children and young people with severe, profound, and complex learning difficulties and disabilities, sensory impairments, communication disorders, and autism. Our Outstanding Royal School Manchester supports students aged 4–19, each following an individualised Seashell curriculum. You’ll be part of a dynamic team including Teachers, Therapists, and other SEN Teaching Assistants, working in a highly specialist, multi-sensory learning environment.

We’re looking for passionate and experienced Lead Teaching Assistants to join our Outstanding school team. In this role, you’ll play a key part in supporting students with complex learning needs, working closely with Teachers and Therapists to implement personalised learning plans. You’ll help create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where every student can thrive!

The Successful Lead Teaching Assistant will:

  • Assist the class Teacher in preparing tailored learning programmes and resources
  • Set up the classroom and activities for daily lessons
  • Help coordinate and support classroom staff
  • Deliver individual learning interventions and support student progress
  • Promote positive behaviour and supervise students during lessons and activities
  • Understand and respond to students’ communication and support needs
  • Supervise students during lunch, breaks, and off-site activities
  • Record progress and share daily updates with colleagues, parents, and transport providers

Requirements for the Lead Teaching Assistant role:

  • Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (desirable)
  • Team player with strong communication skills
  • Confident supporting and evaluating learning programmes
  • Able to coordinate and guide classroom staff
  • Experience in SEND settings (preferred)
  • Energetic, enthusiastic, and committed to making a difference

Lead Teaching Assistant benefits include:

  • Detailed 2-week induction programme for all new employees
  • Access to our on-site inclusive gym, fitness classes and swimming pool
  • Blue light discount scheme
  • Benenden Health Care Membership – access to 24/7 GP, physiotherapy, medical treatments, mental health support including counselling service, cancer support, care planning and social care advice
  • Access to a wide range of vocational programmes to support you in your job role
  • Life Assurance (3x Annual base salary) subject to terms and conditions
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Free on-site parking
  • Paid Enhanced DBS

About Recruitment at Seashell

Our vision is for the children and young people in our care to be safe, happy and to achieve the best possible outcomes so that they are valued and valuable members of their communities.

Our Core Values are represented within the three ‘I’s’ – Integrity, Innovation, and Involvement. We value diversity and are committed to equal opportunities.

Disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria on the person specification will be guaranteed an interview. We are an inclusive employer and welcome all applications.

This charity is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We provide an environment that is safeguarded and as part of our safer recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and full references will be taken.

Apply

Description: Volunteer Trustee Board Member

Type: Voluntary

Hours: Voluntary

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Salary: Voluntary

Type: Voluntary
Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Are you ready to make a difference to the lives of others and be part of Something Extraordinary?

Are you ready to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people with the most complex needs? Seashell Trust, a charity with over 200 years of history, is looking for a committed individual to join our Trustee Board. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of an organisation that’s transforming lives every day.

About Seashell Trust

Located in the heart of Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, Seashell Trust is a beacon of hope and support for children, young people, and their families. We’re proud to operate the Royal School Manchester (RSM), Royal College Manchester (RCM), outreach health and family services, and seventeen residential homes that provide a safe, nurturing environment. Our state-of-the-art facilities—including gardens, forest school, swimming pools, hydro pools, bike track, and sports pitches are designed to create a truly unique and supportive atmosphere.

Why Join Us?

As a Trustee Board Member, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Influence Strategic Direction: Help guide the future of Seashell Trust during a transformative period, including the delivery of a £60m site transformation with new facilities for the Royal College Manchester, sports, training, and support staff.
  • Champion a Worthy Cause: Be part of an organization that is committed to delivering outstanding services to children, young people, and their families.
  • Work with Passionate People: Join a committed and experienced group of Trustees who are dedicated to making a difference.
  • Gain Valuable Experience: Even if you don’t have previous non-exec experience, your passion and commitment to our cause are what matter most.

What We’re Looking For

We are eager to hear from individuals who have specialist skills and knowledge that align with our ambitious plans. We value diversity and want our Board to reflect the rich and varied community we serve.

Currently only considering those with experience of:

· Local authority experience
· Knowledge of Social Care and/or Education policy

What’s Involved?

  • Board Meetings: The Board meets formally five times a year, with an equal number of subcommittee meetings.
  • Active Participation: We hope our Trustees will engage with Seashell Trust events and initiatives, becoming ambassadors for our mission.

Join Us at an Exciting Time

You’ll be stepping into your role during a period of significant change and growth at Seashell Trust. If you’re ready to contribute your skills, energy, and passion to our mission, we’d love to hear from you!

Get that great feeling of personal satisfaction from helping our amazing students and their families live their best lives.

Our Commitment to You

Our vision is for the children and young people in our care to be safe, happy and to achieve the best possible outcomes so that they are valued and valuable members of their communities.

Our Core Values are represented within the three ‘I’s’ – Integrity, Innovation, and Involvement. We value diversity and are committed to equal opportunities.

Disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria on the person specification will be guaranteed an interview. We are an inclusive employer and welcome all applications.

This charity is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We provide an environment that is safeguarded and as part of our safer recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and full references will be taken.

Apply
The Seashell Trust
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