We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Play Worker to join our team, providing a safe and engaging environment for children to learn and play. The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with children and possess the skills necessary to manage activities that promote their development. This role is essential in fostering a positive atmosphere where children can explore their creativity and build social skills.
Duties
Main Responsibilities: To support then playwork team in the development, delivery and promotion of the SPACE Stations Childcare Play Project, including the supporting the:
Organisation, planning, delivery, promotion and management of Play Provision for school aged children 4 - 12 Years.
Development and facilitation of play opportunities underpinned by Playwork values.
Carrying out of administrative duties as related to the job.
Promotion of project.
Day to day supervision of children and junior staff.
Occasional attendance at committee meetings and working with the committee to achieve organisational objectives.
Liaising with parents, schools, voluntary, community and statutory providers.
Specific Duties Include, supporting management in:
1. The provision of appropriate developmental play opportunities: Encourage new and innovative approaches towards Playwork.
2. The creation, maintenance and improvement of a child-centred play environment.
3. Providing for the health, well-being and play needs of the children.
4. Support and encourage a positive behavioural management framework in the project.
5. Ensuring your personal/professional development needs are meet.
6. Carrying out day-to-day administration, record-keeping, and producing reports as necessary.
7. Encouraging parental involvement and support for the club
8. Networking with other Play/Childcare & Social Economy related agencies. (Social Services Early Years Team, Playboard and The Early Years Organisation)
9. Attending meetings as appropriate, with agreement from the Management Committee.
10. Undertaking any relevant training as considered necessary by Management (training may take place out of normal working hours).
11. Responsibility for the care and maintenance of equipment, ensuring that Health & Safety Standards are met.
12. Participate in the ongoing monitoring and evaluation process of the overall project.
13. Any other duties as may be required by the Management.
Essential criteria
Level 2 qualification in Play work or Child Care Learning and Development (must be willing to work towards a level 3 qualification immediately): or a relevant occupational qualification in early years' education, social work, nursing, teaching, and
1 years' experience working in a play, education, youth or day care setting.
Experience of developing and delivering play opportunities.
At least 12 months experience working as part of a team
Experience of developing, organising, and delivering a child-centred Play programme including school aged childcare and summer schemes.
A knowledge and understanding of current childcare legislation (Children Order). Awareness of child protection issues and reporting procedures.
The ability to use judgement and common sense and ability to work on one's own initiative.
Experience of administration in relation to keeping children's files, accident reports, risk assessments and all paperwork relating to the Play work environment
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work co-operatively and flexibly as part of a small team.
Valid Paediatric First Aid certificate, Child protection and Level 2 Award in food safety
Desirable criteria
Level 3 Diploma in Play and Playwork or be willing to work towards this qualification.
An understanding of and a commitment to Playwork Principles with Knowledge of Playwork theory.
Experience of working within the Community/Social economy Sector.
To be able to drive the groups 9 seater vehicle (aged 25+ with a full clean driving licence)
Job Type: Part-time