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- Tasks: Assist in running playgroups for parents, babies, and toddlers.
- Company: Home Start Down District, a supportive community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive pay, and a chance to make a difference.
- Why this job: Join a fun team and help create joyful experiences for families.
- Qualifications: Basic literacy, IT skills, and Level 2 or 3 in Childcare or Health and Social Care.
- Other info: Opportunity for extra hours and great career development.
Home Start Down District are seeking a Playgroup Assistant to assist in the running of groups for parents, babies and toddlers.
Responsibilities
- Help with planning, preparing and delivering play opportunities for babies and toddlers and their parents.
- Help with setting up playroom and cleaning afterwards to ensure environment is safe, healthy and secure.
- Help prepare healthy snacks.
- Help with admin and banking duties.
- Follow all health and safety procedures.
Skills and Qualifications
- Basic literacy and IT skills.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- Level 2 or 3 in Childcare or Health and Social Care.
Further Information
- Standard Hours: up to 25 hours per week.
- Flexible/Reduced Hours: May be available upon approval by a Work Coach.
- Additional Hours: The employer may offer extra hours depending on availability. This should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment.
Application Information
Jobstart is open to working age benefit claimants who are deemed eligible by a Work Coach. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.
Vacancy ID: 1746029
Job Sector: Childcare and Social Work
Location: Downpatrick
Salary: 16-17 £7.55, 18-20 £10.00, 21 plus £12.21 per hour
No. vacancies: 1
Contract Type: Temporary
Weekly hours: 25
Published date: 17/11/2025
Closing date: 23/12/2025
Worktime: Monday to Thursday, times to be confirmed with employer.
Playgroup Assistant in Downpatrick employer: JobStart Scheme
Contact Detail:
JobStart Scheme Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Playgroup Assistant in Downpatrick
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, or even former colleagues who might know someone at Home Start Down District. A personal connection can make all the difference in landing that Playgroup Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of child development and play-based learning. We want you to show off your passion for working with babies and toddlers, so think of examples from your experience that highlight your skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during the interview! This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you. Ask about their approach to play opportunities or how they support their staff.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s quick and easy, and we’ll keep you updated on your application status. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy, which is always a bonus in today’s job market.
We think you need these skills to ace Playgroup Assistant in Downpatrick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Childcare: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for working with babies and toddlers. Share any relevant experiences or skills that highlight your love for childcare and how you can contribute to our playgroup.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure to highlight your qualifications and experiences without unnecessary fluff. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the Playgroup Assistant role. Mention specific responsibilities from the job description, like planning play opportunities or following health and safety procedures, to show you understand what we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at JobStart Scheme
✨Know Your Playgroup Basics
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Playgroup Assistant. Understand how to plan and deliver engaging play opportunities for babies and toddlers, as well as the importance of a safe and healthy environment.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in the past. Highlight your ability to collaborate and support fellow team members, especially in childcare settings.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face in the role, such as handling a messy playroom or preparing healthy snacks. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach these situations, demonstrating your problem-solving skills.
✨Brush Up on Health and Safety
Make sure you understand basic health and safety procedures relevant to working with children. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure a safe environment for both the children and their parents during play sessions.
