From First Steps to Service Manager: My Childcare Journey – Pippa Condliffe, Selfwood

I began my career in 2004 as a residential care worker, stepping into the role with enthusiasm, though not fully sure what to expect. Over the years, the work has provided me with a wide range of experiences – experiences I have been able to share with the young people I have supported. These moments have contributed to their development while also shaping me both personally and professionally. Throughout this time, access to good training and development opportunities has been essential in helping me build confidence, broaden my skills, and continually reflect on and improve my practice.

In 2009, I progressed into a residential manager role, a position I have continued to develop in to the present day. My journey has included significant challenges, from stepping into management within an established home to making the decision to leave one organisation and take on responsibility for another service. Having supportive and approachable management during these transitions has been incredibly important, providing guidance, encouragement, and challenge at key moments in my development.

One of the highlights of my career has been the privilege of opening a new home, where we were able to embed the company’s values and ethos while putting into practice everything I had learned over the years. Working closely alongside a clinical and specialist team during this time strengthened my understanding of trauma‑informed care and supported more thoughtful decision‑making for both staff and children.

Along the way, I have experienced many highs and lows, but each has contributed to my growth and resilience. Above all, I feel privileged to have cared for so many children and young people – they are the reason I continue to work in childcare. It is often the small, unspoken moments that stay with you: the times when you realise that something you have done has made a difference.

Seeing a young person for who they are, and then witnessing who they can become when given the right love, support, and nurture, is what makes this work so meaningful. The guidance and insight of clinical colleagues has further enhanced this, helping to ensure that care approaches are consistent, reflective, and centred around the individual needs of each child.

A key part of what makes my role so rewarding is the colleagues I work alongside. Being part of a team that is passionate, supportive, and values humour and collaboration makes even the most challenging days more manageable – and often more enjoyable. This includes working within a wider multidisciplinary team, where open communication between care staff, clinical professionals, and management creates a positive and supportive environment. Working together, supporting one another, and keeping a shared focus on what matters most ultimately benefits the children in our care.

If I were to offer advice to anyone considering a career in childcare, it would be to approach it with an open mind, patience, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. This is not just a job – it is a 24‑hour responsibility. While you may not always be physically at work, the care, concern, and responsibility for the children stay with you.

The role can be challenging and emotionally demanding, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Make the most of training opportunities, value the support of management and colleagues, and work openly with clinical teams. Do not underestimate the importance of teamwork, resilience, and self‑reflection.

Most importantly, remember that consistency, care, and belief in a young person can have a lasting impact, even when progress is not immediately visible. For those willing to give their time, energy, and compassion, childcare can be a truly meaningful and fulfilling career.