Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop an exciting play and youth programme for 250 young people weekly.
- Company: Join 224 Youth Zone, a vibrant new hub for youth engagement in South Bristol.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of inclusive play while inspiring a passionate team and making a difference.
- Qualifications: Seeking a dynamic leader with experience in youth services and a passion for relational practice.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive network of partners and contribute to meaningful community initiatives.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
224 Youth Zone is set to be a significant new part of South Bristol’s play and youth landscape – and we’re looking for a bold, experienced, and inspiring Head of Play, Youth & Partnerships to lead the charge. As we scale up towards opening, this is your opportunity to shape a high-impact, seven-day-a-week frontline offer for up to 250 children and young people each night – energising a team, building a culture, and delivering at scale. This senior leadership role sits at the heart of delivery, partnerships, and safeguarding, with the power to help shape the future of inclusive, relational, and values-led play and youth provision in the city – working alongside an incredible network of partners and community organisations.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead the strategic development and operational delivery of our open access play and youth programme 40 hours a week of activities that are responsive, inclusive, and exciting!
- Line manage Team Leaders and oversee a large team of part-time and sessional staff, embedding a culture of reflection, excellence and relational practice.
- Shape a delivery model rooted in Play Work and Youth Work theory, focused on progression, relationships, and personal development.
- Be the Designated Safeguarding Lead ensuring all children and young people are safe and supported.
- Build powerful partnerships with local organisations, schools, and services to strengthen our reach and offer.
- Champion the use of CRM and data systems to track, evidence and grow our impact.
- Play a vital role in organisational planning and decision-making as part of the Senior Leadership Team.
What we’re looking for:
- A dynamic, experienced leader of services for Children and Young People, passionate about relational, inclusive, high-quality delivery.
- Confident in staff management and programme design – able to motivate, support and inspire large teams.
- A safeguarding expert, with a strong understanding of duty of care and safe practice.
- A strategic thinker with the ability to lead both day-to-day operations and long-term vision.
- Someone who thrives in a fast-paced, purposeful environment and believes deeply in the power of play and youth work.
If you’re a thoughtful, values-led leader who puts children and young people at the centre and brings both strategic insight and a strong sense of purpose to your work, we’d love to hear from you!
Head of Play, Youth and Partnerships employer: Youth moves
Contact Detail:
Youth moves Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Play, Youth and Partnerships
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local community and its needs. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in South Bristol will help you demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive and impactful programme.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local organisations and schools before applying. Building relationships with potential partners can give you insights into their expectations and how you can align your vision with theirs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style through informal discussions or meet-ups with current staff or volunteers in similar roles. This will not only help you understand the team dynamics but also allow you to express your vision for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on best practices in play and youth work. Engaging with recent research or attending relevant workshops can provide you with fresh ideas and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Play, Youth and Partnerships
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Play, Youth and Partnerships position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in leading services for children and young people. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams, developed programmes, and ensured safeguarding.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: Describe your leadership approach in your application. Highlight how you motivate and inspire teams, and how you foster a culture of reflection and excellence within your work environment.
Connect with the Organisation's Values: Demonstrate your alignment with the values of the organisation. Discuss your passion for inclusive, relational, and high-quality delivery in youth work, and how you plan to implement these values in the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Youth moves
✨Show Your Passion for Youth Work
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and young people. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to inclusive and high-quality delivery in youth services.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Discuss your approach to motivating and inspiring staff, as well as how you foster a culture of reflection and excellence within your team.
✨Highlight Your Safeguarding Expertise
Be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding practices and your experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead. Provide specific examples of how you've ensured the safety and support of children and young people in previous roles.
✨Discuss Strategic Thinking
Illustrate your ability to balance day-to-day operations with long-term vision. Talk about how you've contributed to organisational planning and decision-making, and how you can apply this to the role at 224 Youth Zone.
