Playworker

The Methodist Church in Britain; Walsall; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 17,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Eden Red discounts

UK Health Care health plan

Cycle to work

Blue Light Card

CPD opportunities

Job summary

The Mercian Trust's Oakwood School in England is seeking a Playworker to create safe, welcoming play spaces and support self-directed play for pupils aged 3 to 16 with complex needs. You will promote inclusion, plan engaging activities, and maintain records while working under the Head of School.

Requirements include NVQ Level 2 in Playworker or equivalent experience, experience with children of relevant age, strong safeguarding ethics, and a commitment to equality of opportunity.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 in Playworker, or equivalent qualification or relevant experience.
• Experience of working with or caring for children of a relevant age.

Responsibilities

• Create safe, welcoming play spaces and support freely chosen, self-directed play.
• Support the safeguarding, health, safety and wellbeing of children at all times.
• Build positive relationships with children, young people, parents and carers.
• Promote inclusion and support children with additional or individual needs in play.
• Plan and provide engaging play opportunities based on children's interests and requests.
• Maintain appropriate records and contribute to the wider playworker team.

Skills

Playworker principles

Communication skills

Equality and inclusion

Safeguarding

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Playworker

Job description

Playworker post at Oakwood School, a specialist school for pupils aged 3 to 16 with complex educational needs and part of The Mercian Trust. The role centres on creating safe play spaces, supporting self-directed play and planning activities around children's interests. It is distinct for its focus on including children with additional or individual needs within play sessions, reporting to the Head of School. Candidates need an NVQ Level 2 in playwork or equivalent experience, and visa sponsorship is not available.

What the job involves

• Create safe, welcoming play spaces and support freely chosen, self-directed play
• Support the safeguarding, health, safety and wellbeing of children at all times
• Build positive relationships with children, young people, parents and carers
• Promote inclusion and support children with additional or individual needs in play
• Plan and provide engaging play opportunities based on children's interests and requests
• Maintain appropriate records and contribute to the wider playworker team

What’s required

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 in Playworker, or an equivalent qualification or relevant experience

Experience

• Experience of working with or caring for children of a relevant age

Skills & knowledge

• Understanding of and commitment to the Playworker Principles
• Good communication and relationship-building skills
• Commitment to equality of opportunity and inclusive practice
• Responsible and positive approach to safeguarding, health and safety

Checks & eligibility

• Enhanced DBS check
• Satisfactory references

What’s offered

• Discounts on everyday purchases (Eden Red)
• Comprehensive free health plan (UK Health Care)
• Cycle to work scheme via Halfords
• Access to the Blue Light Card
• Education sector-leading CPD