At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Playgroup Leader in creating fun, child-led play experiences for kids aged 2-3.
- Company: Join Cardiff Parenting and Play Services, a supportive community-focused team.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, pension scheme, training opportunities, and employee wellbeing support.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible hours, perfect for students or those seeking work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a vibrant, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a Level 3 qualification in Children's Care, Play, Learning & Development.
The predicted salary is between 13205 - 13205 £ per year.
Cardiff Parenting and Play Services (which includes the creche and childcare team) are part of Cardiff Early Help. Cardiff Parenting Services are strategically led by a Principal Educational Psychologist and include teams that deliver group and individual parenting programmes and interventions, across the whole of Cardiff. We work in community settings, sometimes with families in the home and in accommodation such as hostels. We have office bases across Cardiff and also have equipment for mobile working, although this role is based at Shirenewton Gypsy and Traveller site.
Parents whose children have used the playgroup have said:
- My boy loves coming to playgroup and runs in there.
- My girl loves playgroup, she asks to go on a weekend day.
Cardiff Council takes the welfare of all of our staff seriously and we strive to deliver positive working arrangements that support our amazing workforce to feel respected and valued. Here are some examples of how we try to achieve this, with opportunities for you as an employee:
- Access to the Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan Pension Fund which is part of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), offering a reputable, secure and flexible pension plan.
- Guaranteed access to further excellent Training & Development, to give you the opportunity to advance your career with us.
- Access to employee equality networks for support, guidance and socialising (these networks include the Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic Network, Carers Network, Disability Network, LGBT Network & the Women’s Network).
- Access to comprehensive employee wellbeing support.
- Access to the My Advantages Employee Benefits Platform (which includes access to the Council’s Cycle to Work Scheme and exclusive discounts at retailers such as Asda, Tesco & Ikea).
As part of a wider expansion of the team, an exciting new role has become available within our Cardiff Parenting and Play Creche Team. We are looking for a Deputy Playgroup Leader to join our setting at Shirenewton Gypsy and Traveller site. The role is varied and the successful candidate will support the Playgroup Leader and act up in their absence. The Deputy Playgroup Leader will play a key part in the development of an experienced team of staff who provide engaging, child-led and fun play experiences for children aged 2-3 years for the Welsh Government funded childcare offer. Candidates will pro-actively contribute to the creation of welcoming and inclusive environments that are sensitive to the needs of adults and children using our service.
The paid hours are 21 hours a week term time only.
What We Are Looking For From You
Essential: a qualification in Children’s Care, Play, Learning & Development (CCPLD minimum Level 3). The post holder should have a genuine interest and love of working with children aged under 4 and their families. We often work with service users who are experiencing challenge and trauma, so candidates will need to have a non-judgemental approach, demonstrating kindness, empathy and understanding. Candidates must have a comprehensive knowledge of the developmental needs of children and be able to deliver information to parents about their child’s development in a sensitive manner. The post holder will receive, and need to problem solve and respond appropriately to, disclosures from service users concerning vulnerable children and/or adults, child protection and/or domestic abuse. The ability to speak other languages, in particular Welsh alongside other community languages would be an advantage.
If you would like more information, please contact Sarah Mackay the Childcare and Creche Co-ordinator on 07817 955443.
Actual Salary: £13,205.83 per annum. This salary is based on working 21 hours per week, 39 weeks per year, rather than a full-time role of 37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Please note: The salary shown assumes a start date of 1st September. If you start after 1st September, your salary for your first school year will be lower than the amount shown above because you will work fewer weeks. This post is temporary until 31st March 2028.
Appointment to this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including a Child and Adult Workforce Barring List check. Safeguarding and Child Protection are key priorities for the Council. We aim to support children and vulnerable adults to ensure they are as safe as they can possibly be. Our services and schools are committed to ensuring the safety and protection of all children and vulnerable adults, and will take action to safeguard their well-being, and acknowledge that children and vulnerable adults have a right to protection.
We understand you might use AI and other resources for your application; however, please ensure all information you provide is factually accurate, truthful, original and does not include ideas or work that is not your own. We welcome applications in both English and Welsh. Applications received in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than English applications.
Job Category: Social Services - Childrens
Working Pattern/Contract Type: Part Time Permanent (Term Time)
DEPUTY PLAYGROUP LEADER in Cardiff employer: Cardiff Directory
Cardiff Directory is an attractive employer due to its commitment to flexibility and competitive compensation. The company fosters a collaborative work culture, allowing employees to engage in meaningful projects that benefit the community. Opportunities for professional development are abundant, making it a great place for career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land DEPUTY PLAYGROUP LEADER in Cardiff
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Cardiff Directory, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Cardiff Directory. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Cardiff Directory's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace DEPUTY PLAYGROUP LEADER in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Cardiff Directory. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Cardiff Directory.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff Directory
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Cardiff Directory.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a DEPUTY PLAYGROUP LEADER at Cardiff Directory.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Cardiff Directory that you're ready to hit the ground running in the DEPUTY PLAYGROUP LEADER role.
