Support Worker

EARLY YEARS WALES 2018; Pen-y-ffordd; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 15,000; Part time

Job summary

EARLY YEARS WALES 2018 is seeking a Support Worker to join the playgroup team. The role involves providing 1:1 support to a child with additional needs, assisting in all aspects of care, and helping implement setting policies.

The post requires a level 2/3 qualification in childcare, 6 months’ experience in a similar setting, and ability to communicate with parents and professionals. Welsh language skills are welcomed and a safeguarding mindset is essential.

Qualifications

• Must hold a level 2/3 qualification in childcare/early years.
• At least 6 months’ experience in a similar one-to-one role with a child who has additional needs.
• Knowledge of CIW legislation relevant to sessional care for pre-school children.
• Knowledge of Foundation Phase curriculum for pre-school children.
• Ability to communicate effectively with families and professionals.
• Commitment to equal opportunities and to maintaining confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Ensure a safe, clean environment and high hygiene standards.
• Work as a key worker for the child and support development and participation.
• Communicate progress to parents and colleagues using appropriate channels.
• Maintain accurate records and protect children's personal data.
• Follow safeguarding guidelines and report concerns promptly.
• Support planning and documentation, including individual learning plans.
• Contribute to promoting a positive, inclusive group atmosphere.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Confidentiality

Welsh language

Education

Level 2/3 qualification in childcare/early years

Tools

First Aid certificate

Basic Food Hygiene certificate

Child Protection certificate

Job description

Support Worker

Responsible To: Setting Supervisor and playgroup committee

Salary: minimum wage

Start Date: to be comfirmed

Purpose of the Job

To work as part of the setting team, as a 1:1 Support Worker for a child attending the playgroup, who has additional needs. To support the child in all aspects of care including play activities and personal care.

Also, to assist supporting the Setting Supervisor in providing safe, high-quality education and care for children aged between two to four years of age. To fulfil legal and statutory requirements, contribute to and implement setting policies; in addition to acting as a key worker for the child and communicating progress on a regular basis to their parents.

Main Duties

• To ensure that the setting is a safe environment for children, that equipment is safe, standards of hygiene are high, and safety procedures are adhered to.
• To work closely with the child, other members of staff and parents including contributing to and implementing Individual booklets in collaboration with the supervisor. Also working closely with the ALN Coordinator and other professionals such as S&L as required.
• To help ensure there is a good, happy, and positive atmosphere at all sessions.
• Take time to listen and respond to the child, encourage participation, and support them in their development.
• To maintain equality of opportunity for all children within the playgroup.

The Children

• To be the key person for the child, to be responsible for the child and to ensure that their progress is regularly observed and effectively assessed. You will be expected to celebrate the child's achievements with their parents/other professional and work together with them to provide appropriately for their child's wellbeing, enabling them to make progress.
• To communicate via seesaw with parents/guardians, informing them about the setting, exchanging information about their child's progress and encouraging parental involvement.
• To follow guidelines and procedures for child protection as recommended by the registering authority; report any accidents or incidents to the setting leader.

Records and Planning

• To ensure records are properly maintained, such as: accident & incident report books. To be responsible for keeping the child's personal record of progress up to date with photographs, basic written evidence, and next steps.
• To read and be familiar with the playgroup's policies and the statutory requirements for sessional care.
• To maintain documentation in accordance with Data Protection Act.
• To keep confidential any information regarding children, their families, or other staff members.

Training

• To undertake training courses and practical training as required.

Person Specification

E = Essential D = Desirable

• To hold a level 2/3 qualification in childcare/early years
• D
• At least 6 months experience working in a similar setting as a one to one with a child with additional needs.
• E
• Knowledge and practical experience of CIW legislation relevant to the provision of sessional care for pre-school age children
• D
• Knowledge and practical experience of Foundation Phase curriculum relevant to the provision of sessional care for pre-school age children
• D
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals and organisations, including parents
• E
• Ability to work as part of a team and work on one's initiative
• E
• An understanding and commitment to equal opportunities
• E
• Ability to maintain client confidentiality
• E
• An understanding of play and child development and the ability to meet children’s individual needs, with a caring, understanding and sensitive nature
• E
• An ability to demonstrate a wide range of practical play work skills
• E
• Current First Aid certificate
• E
• Current Basic Food Hygiene certificate
• D
• Current Child Protection certificate
• E
• Ability to incorporate limited Welsh into the children's learning
• D

At least 6 months prior one to one experience is essential to this role, applicants without experience need not apply.

Hours of Work: Monday- Friday 9am-11.30am term time on a rolling contract