At a Glance
- Tasks: Create a fun and inclusive environment for children with additional needs.
- Company: Join North Somerset Council, dedicated to community impact and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, local government pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours during term time and holidays, with a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a positive difference in children's lives while gaining hands-on experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with children or young people with additional needs and good communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 € per year.
About Us
North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.
The Role
We are seeking enthusiastic, caring and reliable playworkers to join our SENDCAS short breaks team. We are looking for individuals who can commit to working both during term time and school holidays. As a Playworker, you will help create a safe, fun and inclusive environment where children and young people with additional needs can relax, play, explore new activities and build independence. You will work as part of a supportive team to plan and deliver creative play and leisure activities during term-time sessions and school holidays. These run term time Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday mornings. During the holidays, the activities run all week, for a full day.
This role is ideal if you are:
- Passionate about making a positive difference
- Looking for flexible work alongside study or other commitments
- Keen to gain hands-on experience working with children and young people with SEND
Key Responsibilities
- Support the planning and delivery of safe, creative and enjoyable play and leisure activities
- Work directly with children and young people with additional needs, encouraging inclusion, confidence and choice
- Provide personal care, support with mobility, and administer medication or first aid where required (training provided)
- Act as a positive role model, promoting respect, teamwork and positive behaviour
- Build effective relationships with children, families, carers and colleagues
- Follow safeguarding, health & safety and equality policies at all times
- Contribute to records, feedback and continuous improvement of the service
- Attend training sessions and team meetings as required
- Commit to term time and holiday working
This position is exempt under the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions) Order 1975 and is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.
About You
We are looking for an individual who is passionate about supporting children with additional needs and who possesses the following skills and experience:
Essential Criteria
- NVQ Level 2 (or working towards) or relevant qualifications
- Experience (paid or voluntary) working with children or young people with additional needs
- A caring, patient and inclusive approach
- Good communication skills and ability to work as part of a team
- Willingness to provide personal care and work in a physically active environment
- Understand and respect personal boundaries and responsibilities
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
- Ability to recognise and manage challenging situations in a calm and professional manner
- Be a role model and promote professionalism in all aspects of the work
- Willingness to work flexibly, including both term time and school holidays
- Satisfactory enhanced DBS check
What We Offer
At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment. We offer:
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Local Government Pension
- Opportunities for professional development
- Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums
- Dedicated in house Wellbeing Team
Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.
How to Apply
If you share our vision and values and are ready to make an impact to North Somerset, please select the apply online button below.
Contact Information
For further information about the role, please contact the SENDCAS Team by email SENDCAS@n-somerset.gov.uk.
Important Information
As a Disability Confident Leader, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the job role.
Interview Date
These will be carried out on a Tuesday, Wednesday evening and Saturday morning. Please state in your application any days/dates you are not available for interview.
Equal Opportunities
At North Somerset Council we want all our employees to feel valued and appreciated. We aim to ensure equality of opportunity and prevent discrimination irrespective of your sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or belief, race, age, disability, including neurodiversity, if you are married or in a civil partnership or are pregnant or currently on maternity leave. We strive to create a workplace that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early or extend the closing date depending on the number of applications received.
Playworker – Children & Young People SENDCAS in Weston-super-Mare employer: North Somerset Council
North Somerset Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its employees. With a strong commitment to professional development, competitive salaries, and a focus on employee wellbeing, the council provides unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the community while working with children and young people with additional needs. Join us to be part of a diverse team that values respect, teamwork, and personal growth, all while contributing to a fairer and greener society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Playworker – Children & Young People SENDCAS in Weston-super-Mare
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research North Somerset Council and their values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a positive impact in the community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the role and the team, plus it shows your enthusiasm for joining their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated your caring and inclusive approach. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email. It’s a nice touch and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Playworker – Children & Young People SENDCAS in Weston-super-Mare
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people shine through in your application. We want to see how much you care about making a positive difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Mention any qualifications or experiences that align with the role, especially those related to working with children with additional needs.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon so we can easily understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at North Somerset Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Playworker and the specific needs of children with additional needs. Familiarise yourself with North Somerset Council's values and how they align with your passion for making a positive difference.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through! Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to supporting children and young people with SEND. This will help demonstrate your caring and inclusive approach.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face as a Playworker, such as managing challenging behaviour or providing personal care. Be ready to discuss how you would handle these situations calmly and professionally, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they measure the success of their activities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
