Playworker - Safe, Inclusive Play for Young Learners

The Mercian Trust; Walsall; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Financial benefits

Health plan

Cycle to work

Blue Light Card

Job summary

The Mercian Trust is seeking a Playworker at Oakwood School in Walsall to create safe, welcoming play environments and support self-directed play. You will build strong relationships with children, families and carers while safeguarding and promoting inclusive practice.

The role involves planning engaging activities based on interests, maintaining records, and contributing to a supportive playworker team in a school setting for pupils aged 3–16 with complex educational needs.

Qualifications

• Understanding of the Playworker Principles and safeguarding expectations.
• Strong communication and relationship-building with children, families and carers.
• Commitment to equality of opportunity and inclusive practice.

Responsibilities

• Create safe, welcoming play spaces and support self-directed play.
• Build positive relationships with children, parents and carers.
• Support safeguarding, health, safety and wellbeing of children at all times.
• Promote inclusion and support children with additional needs.
• Help plan engaging play opportunities based on children’s interests.
• Maintain records and contribute to the playworker team.

Skills

Playworker principles

Communication skills

Safeguarding awareness

Equality & inclusion

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Playworker

Job description

The Mercian Trust is seeking a Playworker at Oakwood School in Walsall to create safe, welcoming play environments and support self-directed play. You will build strong relationships with children, families and carers while safeguarding and promoting inclusive practice.

The role involves planning engaging activities based on interests, maintaining records, and contributing to a supportive playworker team in a school setting for pupils aged 3–16 with complex educational needs.