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- Tasks: Support and deliver engaging play activities for children and young people.
- Company: Join Southwark Council’s Youth and Play Service, fostering a safe and inclusive environment.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, meaningful work, and the chance to make a difference in children's lives.
- Why this job: Be a key player in helping children explore, learn, and build confidence.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, strong communication skills, and a passion for youth development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Neway International are seeking two Play Workers to join our client based with Southwark Council.
Location: 160 Tooley Street, Southwark, SE1 2QH
Hours: 22 per week
Start Date: 17/02/2026
About the Client
Southwark Council’s Youth and Play Service provides safe, engaging and inclusive play opportunities for children and young people across the borough. The service supports children’s social, emotional and physical development through structured activities, free play and positive adult interaction.
The Role
The Play Worker will support the delivery of high‑quality play sessions within Southwark’s youth and play settings. You will help create a safe, stimulating and welcoming environment where children can explore, learn and build confidence. The role involves direct engagement with children, supporting their participation in activities, and ensuring their wellbeing at all times.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the planning and delivery of play activities for children and young people
- Create a safe, inclusive and engaging play environment
- Build positive relationships with children, parents and colleagues
- Encourage participation, creativity and confidence through structured and free play
- Ensure safeguarding responsibilities are met at all times
- Assist with setting up and clearing away equipment and materials
- Contribute to behaviour management in a positive and supportive manner
- Maintain accurate records as required by the service
- Work flexibly according to the needs of the play setting
Candidate Requirements
- Experience working with children or young people in a play, youth work or childcare setting
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work as part of a team and use initiative
- Reliable, enthusiastic and committed to supporting children’s development
- Understanding of safeguarding and child protection
- Ability to adapt to changing needs within the service
Play Worker employer: Neway International Ltd
Contact Detail:
Neway International Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Play Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Southwark Council and their Youth and Play Service. Understanding their values and mission will help you connect with them during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Play Workers, or anyone in the youth services field. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about job openings. Plus, it’s a great way to build relationships in the industry!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about your experiences with children. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've created engaging environments or supported children's development. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a positive impact on children’s lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Play Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Play: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your love for play and how you’ve positively impacted kids in the past.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Play Worker role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you understand what Southwark Council is looking for in a candidate.
Highlight Your Team Spirit: Since teamwork is key in this role, emphasise your ability to work collaboratively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to create engaging environments for children.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While it’s important to maintain professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A friendly tone can make your application stand out and show that you’re a great fit for the inclusive environment at Southwark Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Neway International Ltd
✨Know Your Playwork Principles
Familiarise yourself with the key principles of playwork, especially how they relate to children's development. Be ready to discuss how you would create a safe and engaging environment for children, as this will show your understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences working with children or young people. Highlight situations where you successfully engaged them in activities or managed behaviour positively. This will demonstrate your practical skills and commitment.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since the role involves working closely with colleagues and parents, be prepared to talk about your teamwork and communication skills. Share examples of how you've built positive relationships in previous roles, as this is crucial for creating a welcoming environment.
✨Understand Safeguarding Responsibilities
Make sure you have a solid grasp of safeguarding and child protection policies. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure the wellbeing of children in your care, as this is a top priority for Southwark Council's Youth and Play Service.
