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- Tasks: Lead and deliver engaging play activities for children aged 4-11 in a nurturing environment.
- Company: A well-established children's charity dedicated to supporting families and young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £34,000, meaningful work, and the chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help children thrive through play and development.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Playwork or related field and experience with children.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 38000 £ per year.
Job Description
Harris Hill is delighted to be partnering with a well-established children’s charity in London in their search for a Deputy Play Manager.
Full-time | £34,000 per annum
The charity has been supporting children, young people and families for over 25 years through a range of play, family support and youth programmes. Their Ofsted-registered after-school and holiday play schemes provide children aged 4–11 with safe, engaging and nurturing environments to explore, grow and thrive.
As Deputy Play Manager, you’ll play a key leadership role within the play service, helping to design, deliver and evaluate a high-quality programme of activities. You’ll support the Play Manager in day-to-day operations (including managing enquiries/collection of fees), team management and ensuring compliance with all safeguarding, health and safety, and Ofsted standards.
This is a hands-on role combining leadership, planning, and active delivery — you’ll work directly with children and families to create safe, inclusive, and stimulating play environments.
About You
Essential skills and experience:
- Level 3 qualification (or above) in Playwork, Early Years, or a related field.
- Minimum of three years’ experience working directly with children aged 4–11.
- Strong understanding of EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
- Experience planning and delivering engaging, age-appropriate play activities.
- Confident leading active, outdoor or adventure-based play.
- Sound understanding of safeguarding and child protection.
- Excellent communication and team leadership skills.
- Strong organisational and IT skills.
Desirable:
- Experience supporting children with additional needs or from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience supervising others or managing volunteers.
- Knowledge of current issues affecting children and families.
- Relevant training such as paediatric first aid or food hygiene.
Play is at the heart of what they do — the organisation believes that every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy a happy, fulfilling childhood through both free and guided play experiences.
If you’re passionate about play, child development and helping young people thrive, we’d love to hear from you.
For more information, please submit your CV to
 Please note, CVs are being reviewed on a rolling basis, and only successful applicants will be contacted with more information.
 As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
Deputy Play Manager employer: Harris Hill Charity Recruitment Specialists
Contact Detail:
Harris Hill Charity Recruitment Specialists Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Play Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the charity's mission and values inside out. When you walk into that interview, let your passion for play and child development shine through. We want to see how you can contribute to their vision!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some engaging examples from your past experiences working with children. Think about specific activities you've led or challenges you've overcome. We love hearing real stories that showcase your skills and dedication!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during the interview! Show us that you're genuinely interested in the role and the team. It’s a great way to demonstrate your enthusiasm and get a feel for the work environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals like you to join our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Play Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your Level 3 qualification and any relevant experience working with children aged 4-11. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to the role!
Showcase Your Passion: In your cover letter, let us know why you're passionate about play and child development. Share any personal experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to creating safe and engaging environments for children. We love hearing your story!
Be Specific About Your Experience: When detailing your past roles, be specific about the activities you've planned and delivered. Mention any experience with outdoor or adventure-based play, as well as your understanding of safeguarding and Ofsted standards. We’re looking for concrete examples!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Hill Charity Recruitment Specialists
✨Know Your Playwork Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of playwork principles and the EYFS framework. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in your previous roles, especially when planning engaging activities for children aged 4-11.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in team management and leadership. Think about times when you've successfully led a team or managed volunteers, and be ready to share how you ensured compliance with safeguarding and health and safety standards.
✨Engage with the Charity's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the charity's values and mission. During the interview, express your passion for child development and how you can contribute to creating safe and stimulating play environments that align with their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you handled them, particularly in relation to working with children and families.
