Launch of a Unique Opportunity to work in Therapeutic Residential Childcare
People 1st is proud to announce the launch of a new Residential Care Worker Academy, developed in partnership with Tearmann Care — a specialist provider of therapeutic residential childcare. This academy is designed to train, support, and recruit a team of highly skilled, trauma-informed care professionals to work with children aged 6–13 who have experienced complex developmental trauma and attachment difficulties.
Set in a peaceful location just a short drive from Belfast and Lisburn, Tearmann Cottage is a modern, purpose-built residential home that will provide a nurturing and secure environment for two young children. The home has been carefully designed to offer a sense of calm and safety, supporting each child on their personal healing journey.
About Tearmann Care
Established in 2025, Tearmann Care provides a safe and supportive sanctuary for children who need specialist, trauma-informed care. Their approach is built around the belief that every child deserves stability, compassion, and the opportunity to heal in a therapeutic environment. Tearmann’s flagship setting, Tearmann Cottage, sets a new standard for residential childcare in Northern Ireland.
What is the Residential Childcare Academy?
The Residential Care Worker Academy offers a fully supported pathway into a rewarding career in therapeutic residential care. This bespoke training programme is designed for individuals with personal or professional experience supporting children — especially those affected by developmental trauma.
Through a mix of online and in-person workshops, participants will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insight into the unique challenges and rewards of working in a therapeutic setting.
What You’ll Learn in the Residential Childcare Academy
- 🧡 Introduction to Health & Social Care / Working with Children values
- 🧡 Person-Centred Approach to Care
- 🧡 Introduction to Safeguarding
- 🧡 Positive Behaviour Support
- 🧡 Disability and Special Needs Awareness
- 🧡 Trauma-Informed Practice & Early Childhood Experiences
- 🧡 Site visit to Tearmann Cottage
This training offers much more than classroom learning — it’s about developing the mindset and resilience needed to truly support vulnerable children through some of the most important years of their lives.
What Happens After the Academy?
Graduates of the Academy will have access to:
- Specialist in-depth training with Tearmann Care
- The Level 2 Award in Safe and Effective Practice
- The NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care, available through ApprenticeshipsNI for eligible candidates
All successful participants will also receive a guaranteed interview with Tearmann Care — providing a real opportunity to join a supportive and compassionate care team.
Who Should Apply for the Residential Childcare Academy?
This programme is ideal for people who:
- Have personal or professional experience supporting children with trauma
- Are compassionate, resilient, and eager to make a difference
- Are able to commit to 5–6 days of training (online and in-person)
- Are actively seeking a career in therapeutic childcare
Please note: sponsorship opportunities are not available at this time.
Why Join the Academy?
Working in therapeutic residential childcare is a deeply rewarding career, offering a chance to truly impact a child’s future. The Tearmann Care team is passionate about supporting children with complex needs and offering them safety, healing, and choice. With full support from People 1st, this Academy provides the tools, training, and mentoring you need to start your journey with confidence.
How to Apply:
📍 Spaces are limited, and demand is expected to be high.
If you’d like to learn more or express your interest in applying for this Academy, please contact:
👤 Kim Mead
📧 [email protected]
📞 07708 072395
Visit http://www.tearmanncare.com to learn more about the Tearmann approach and the incredible work they do.
Also if you are new to the People 1st Academies- we have some fantastic information here https://people-1st.co.uk/programmes/academies/ where you can find out more about the Academies Team and watch some fab video testimonials from some past participants!
