Playgroup Assistant

JobStart Scheme; Craigavon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A local childcare provider in Craigavon is seeking a dedicated candidate to assist in managing the playgroup. Responsibilities include ensuring a nurturing environment, engaging with parents, and maintaining the safety and well-being of children. Qualifications such as Paediatric First Aid and an NVQ in Childcare are essential. The position offers flexible working hours up to 25 hours per week, with salaries based on age, and is aimed at eligible benefit claimants. The role is temporary and requires a commitment to the care and development of young children.

Qualifications

• Essential qualifications include Paediatric First Aid and NVQ in Childcare.
• Understanding of child protection protocols is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Assist the manager in delivering quality provision within the playgroup.
• Ensure a caring environment for children and families.
• Engage regularly with parents about children's learning outcomes.
• Assist with the safety and well-being of children.

Skills

Paediatric First Aid

Child protection

NVQ in Childcare

Job description

THE EMPLOYER IS: ASHGROVE PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP. The post holder will be responsible for assisting the manager in the delivery of high quality provision within the playgroup. This will include working in partnership with families to promote and facilitate positive parenting and the enhancement of the role of parents as 'first educators'. The post holder will also assist the leader in ensuring the overall safety and wellbeing of the children and for implementing the standards laid down by Ashgrove playgroup and minimum standards through social services.

Responsibilities

• Assist the manager/leader in the provision within the playgroup.
• Work with all staff to ensure a caring and welcoming environment for children and families.
• Carry out agreed system of observation and documentation.
• Regularly engage with parents to ensure children learning outcomes are shared and agreed.
• Assist with the overall safety and well‑being of the children.
• Carry out manual handling duties as part of the role.

Skills and Qualifications

• Paediatric First Aid.
• Child protection.
• NVQ in Childcare.

Further Information

The employer offers standard hours up to 25 hours per week. Flexible or reduced hours may be available upon approval by a Work Coach, and additional hours may be offered depending on availability. These should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment. The job advert may end before the closing date if requested by the employer.

Application Information

JobStart is open to working age benefit claimants deemed eligible by a Work Coach. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.

Job Sector: Childcare and Social Work. Area: Co Armagh. Location: Craigavon. Salary: 16-17 £7.55, 18-20 £10.00, 21 plus £12.21 per hour. No. vacancies: 1. Contract Type: Temporary. Weekly hours: 25. Published date: 04/12/2025. Closing date: 14/01/2026. Worktime: Between 9am-2pm, Monday - Friday.