Playworker

Thurrock Council; Thurrock; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

A local council in Thurrock seeks enthusiastic staff to support qualified center staff in providing short break sessions for disabled children aged 4-19. Responsibilities include directly supporting children, planning activities, and maintaining a safe environment. While a Level 3 childcare qualification is desirable, prior experience with disabled children is crucial. This is a casual contract position with flexible hours, allowing you to make a positive impact in children's lives.

Qualifications

• Experience working directly with disabled children.
• Ability to develop positive relationships with children.
• Skills in planning and leading activities.

Responsibilities

• Support children in sessions of the Disabled Children's Short Breaks and Outreach Service.
• Set up and put away activities/equipment.
• Plan and lead sessions as required.
• Maintain a safe and clean play area.
• Engage with children during recreational activities.
• Work with colleagues to ensure a stimulating environment.

Skills

Support children

Engagement in recreational activities

Relationship building

Education

Level 3 childcare qualification (desirable)

Job description

Salary: £15.16 per hour
Grade: C
Contract type: Casual Contract
Hours: Zero Hours – various hours available (Saturdays, after school hours and school holidays)

The Disabled Children's Short Breaks and Outreach Service provide short break sessions for children after school, during weekends and during school holidays. Are you enthusiastic and would like to work with our wonderful children? We are looking for staff that will support qualified centre staff and also lead and facilitate short break sessions to provide children with safe fun and challenging activities. You will be working with children aged 4-19 with a broad spectrum of needs.

Responsibilities

• Directly support children attending the Disabled Children's Short Breaks and Outreach Service.
• Assist in the setting up and putting away of activities/equipment during sessions.
• Where necessary to plan and lead sessions (dependant on qualification) taking responsibility for children and staff.
• Assist in maintaining the play area; ensuring safety, cleanliness and providing an enriching learning environment for our children.
• Develop positive relationships with the children and young people who attend our services.
• Engage and support children and young people in social, recreational decision making opportunities.
• Support the developmental needs of the children and young people accessing our service.
• Work effectively with colleagues to provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children and young people accessing our service.

Qualifications & Experience

It is desirable for successful candidates to hold a Level 3 childcare qualification, but not essential. Successful applicants will have previous experience of direct work with disabled children.

Recruitment Details

For an informal discussion about these posts, please contact Lauren Riddick, Centre Manager or Jackie Harper, Deputy Manager on 01375 652200. A Disclosure and Barring Service Check at Enhanced level with Children's Barred list will be required for this post.

Closing Date: 11th January 2026
Interviews Date: TBC

Application Process

To view the Job Profile and Person Specification please follow the link below:
Download Job Profile (PDF Document)

Application Requirements:
As part of the Safer Recruitment process, Gap Management is required for all Safeguarding roles. Please complete the Gaps in Employment grid provided (refer to the example document for guidance) and upload it under Miscellaneous Documents as part of your application.
If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.
Gaps in Employment Form
Gaps in Employment Example
Applicants who hold a Visa must provide valid evidence of their right to work in the UK for this role. If you are applying under the Skilled Worker Visa route for supplementary employment, please ensure the role is eligible by reviewing the criteria outlined on the official government website: Skilled Worker visa: eligible occupations and codes - GOV.UK