Casual SEND Playworker in Wokingham

Casual SEND Playworker in Wokingham

Wokingham Full-Time 13 - 15 £ / hour (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support SEND children with fun activities and create a nurturing environment.
  • Company: Wokingham Borough Council, dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
  • Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, full training, and ongoing support.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact while having fun and developing essential skills.
  • Qualifications: Passion for working with children with disabilities and strong communication skills.
  • Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy flexible working arrangements.

The predicted salary is between 13 - 15 £ per hour.

We’re looking for enthusiastic and caring individuals to join our team in supporting SEND children and young people aged 5–16 who attend the Club Hub. These sessions are funded through a range of programmes including the Department for Education’s HAF Programme, the Hardship Alliance for extended SEND provision, and Short Breaks. We deliver high‑quality care through fun and engaging activities for children and young people with SEND after school, during school holidays, and one Saturday a month.

As a Playworker, your main role will be to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can thrive.

We’re Looking For People Who:

  • Have experience or a strong passion for working with children and young people with a range of disabilities and complex needs.
  • Are keen to learn about different communication styles and behavioural needs.
  • Can work effectively under pressure in a busy, diverse and demanding work environment.
  • Have the ability to have fun, engage children and young people to access a range of activities, whilst keeping them safe.
  • Can be positive role models, helping children develop social and independent living skills.
  • Are committed to Safeguarding.

About the role:

  • Supporting communication using tools such as Makaton, PECS, and assistive technology.
  • Facilitating access to a wide range of activities including arts and crafts, sensory play, sports, games, water play, and more.
  • Promoting independence in life skills such as mealtimes, personal care, and safety.
  • Encouraging the development of social skills and helping children build positive relationships.

We offer:

As part of our team, you’ll have the chance to make a real difference in children’s lives. We provide a full induction and training programme, with ongoing support and supervision. Flexible Hours: This role offers flexible working hours that can fit around your other commitments.

Interested? For more information, please contact: Sophie Hookway, sophie.hookway@wokingham.gov.uk

If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer. Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre‑employment checks.

Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we regret that we are unable to respond to every applicant individually. If you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the application closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion. We appreciate your interest in joining Wokingham Borough Council and thank you for taking the time to apply. Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.

Casual SEND Playworker in Wokingham employer: Children's Social Care, Wokingham

Wokingham Borough Council is an excellent employer for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of SEND children and young people. With flexible working hours, comprehensive training, and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to grow and thrive in their roles. The council's commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare ensures a fulfilling and meaningful work environment in the vibrant community of Wokingham.
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Contact Detail:

Children's Social Care, Wokingham Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Casual SEND Playworker in Wokingham

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the role and the organisation! Research Wokingham Borough Council and their SEND initiatives. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current or former Playworkers on LinkedIn or local community groups. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about upcoming opportunities.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to working with SEND children. Think about your experiences and how they align with the job description, especially around communication styles and safeguarding.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a positive impact.

We think you need these skills to ace Casual SEND Playworker in Wokingham

Experience working with children with disabilities
Knowledge of communication styles (Makaton, PECS)
Ability to create a safe and nurturing environment
Engagement skills for activities
Understanding of safeguarding principles
Facilitation of life skills development
Ability to work under pressure
Positive role modelling
Encouragement of social skills development
Flexibility in working hours

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with SEND children shine through. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your passion for supporting young people with disabilities.

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with the role of a Playworker, especially those related to communication styles and engaging activities.

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so we can easily see how you fit into our team and the positive impact you can have on the children.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly, and you’ll find all the information you need to complete your application smoothly.

How to prepare for a job interview at Children's Social Care, Wokingham

✨Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Casual SEND Playworker. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with SEND and the tools used for communication like Makaton and PECS. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.

✨Show Your Enthusiasm

During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through! Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your passion for working with children and young people with disabilities. This will help the interviewers see your genuine interest in making a difference.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations, such as managing challenging behaviour or promoting independence. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar challenges, and be ready to discuss them.

✨Ask Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training and support provided, or how the team collaborates to create engaging activities. This shows that you’re not only interested in the job but also in being an active part of the team.

Casual SEND Playworker in Wokingham
Children's Social Care, Wokingham
Location: Wokingham

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