Holiday Club Lead

The Gap Club Ltd; Staines-upon-Thames; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary based on experience

Supportive team and positive working culture

Opportunities for leadership development and training

Seasonal flexibility

Job summary

A leading childcare provider in Staines-upon-Thames is seeking a Holiday Club Manager to lead and inspire children during holiday club sessions. This role requires hands-on leadership, planning engaging activities, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Candidates should have a strong background in childcare, leadership, and excellent communication skills. A robust support structure and opportunities for personal development are provided to ensure a positive and enriching experience for both staff and children.

Qualifications

• Experience working in childcare, ideally in a leadership role.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Passion for working with children and creating an enriching environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and engage children in age-appropriate activities.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Supervise and support team members effectively.

Skills

Childcare leadership

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Knowledge of EYFS

Knowledge of safeguarding

Team leadership

Education

Level 3/4 qualification in childcare or related field

Job description

About Us

The Gap Club, established in 2001, is a high-quality, Ofsted‑registered out‑of‑school hours childcare provider for Nursery and Primary School aged children. Our mission is to deliver outstanding, child‑centred care by creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can grow, play, and thrive.

We are guided by our HEART values:

• Happiness and Vitality – Creating joyful, energetic spaces where children feel they belong.
• Empowerment and Advocacy – Celebrating each child’s individuality and giving them a voice.
• Resilience and Growth Mindset – Supporting children as they learn to face challenges with confidence.
• Trust and Professionalism – Providing reliable, high‑quality childcare that families can depend on.

We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Holiday Club Manager to lead and deliver a fun, dynamic, and enriching experience for children during our holiday club sessions.

Role Overview

As a Holiday Club Lead, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day leadership and smooth running of a holiday club setting. You will lead engaging, age‑appropriate activities that promote development across SPICE and EYFS frameworks. This hands‑on leadership role includes planning, safeguarding, staff supervision, liaising with parents and schools, and ensuring compliance with health, safety and childcare regulations. You will play a key role in creating a positive, child‑led environment while driving operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Activity Planning & Delivery

• Design and lead creative, inclusive, and age‑appropriate activities in line with SPICE and EYFS goals.
• Promote child‑led play and involve children in activity planning.
• Ensure the club environment is stimulating, well‑equipped, and engaging.
• Evaluate activities regularly and adapt based on feedback and observations.

Child Safety & Well‑being

• Maintain a high level of supervision and ensure all safeguarding procedures are followed.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement health and safety policies.
• Administer first aid as required and record all incidents appropriately.
• Safely accompany children between settings when needed.

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead and motivate a team of playworkers and support staff.
• Provide training, mentoring, and ongoing support to ensure quality delivery.
• Manage performance, conduct team meetings, and ensure adherence to club policies.
• Identify recruitment needs and support hiring and onboarding processes.

Operational Excellence

• Manage the daily schedule and ensure smooth delivery of club operations.
• Act as the main point of contact for parents and promote strong relationships.
• Oversee the provision of healthy snacks, considering allergies and dietary needs.
• Support marketing initiatives to promote and grow the club.

Compliance & Administration

• Ensure full compliance with childcare regulations, health and safety laws, and food safety standards.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding all children, families, and staff.
• Manage petty cash, monitor attendance and payments, and ensure financial accuracy.
• Conduct regular checks and maintain documentation for audits and inspections.

Personal Development & Engagement

• Attend team meetings, parent events, and training sessions as required.
• Actively pursue opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Support the induction and development of new staff.

Skills and Requirements

Essential

• Experience working in childcare, ideally in a leadership role.
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and health & safety requirements.
• Passion for working with children and creating an enriching environment.

Desirable

• First Aid and Safeguarding certificates (or willingness to obtain).
• Familiarity with inclusive practices and child‑centred approaches.
• Administrative competence and ability to use office software.
• Level 3/4 or higher qualification in childcare, education, or a related field.

Physical Demands

The role involves supervising activities, setting up and packing away play areas, and moving equipment. A good level of physical health and stamina is required to support an active and safe environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Supportive team and positive working culture
• Opportunities for leadership development and training
• Seasonal flexibility and varied work settings
• Make a meaningful impact on children’s development and wellbeing