Play Assistant

Play Assistant

Auchterarder Part-Time No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support children with fun activities like arts, crafts, and storytelling after school.
  • Company: Join Perth & Kinross Council, dedicated to providing quality childcare and community support.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, generous leave, and access to training and wellbeing support.
  • Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's lives while gaining valuable experience in childcare.
  • Qualifications: No prior qualifications needed; just a passion for working with kids and a willingness to learn.
  • Other info: This role requires registration with the Scottish Social Services Council within three months.

Overview

Play Assistant (Fixed Term for up to 12 Months) – PKC13026

Salary: £8,632 – £9,018 (15 hours per week, term-time only)

Location: Langtoon Kids Club, The Community School of Auchterarder

Hours: 2.45pm – 6pm, term-time

Purpose: Working within Perth & Kinross Council, support high-quality care and a range of stimulating activities for children in a registered childcare service.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in providing high-quality care and a comprehensive range of stimulating activities (e.g., arts and crafts, storytelling, den building, physical play, and trips/outings aligned with children’s needs and interests).
  • Work closely with the Supervisor and the Kids Club Team, contributing to children’s learning and development in a safe and inclusive environment outside school hours.
  • Support the provision of after-school care during term-time under supervision.
  • Adopt a flexible approach to working conditions to cover contracted hours.

Skills & Experience

  • Genuine interest and commitment to working with children in a professional early learning or childcare environment.
  • Demonstrate sensitivity, patience, compassion, and a welcoming approach to foster trust and safety for children and their families/carers.
  • Willingness to pursue a recognised qualification listed by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and commitment to achieving the required qualification within set timescales.
  • No entry qualifications are required, but you will be supported to work towards an SSSC-listed qualification.
  • Should register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) for Day Care of Children within 3 months of starting and maintain annual membership.
  • Access to further training and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications & Checks

  • The role requires registration with the SSSC for Day Care of Children within 3 months of starting and ongoing annual membership.
  • Not currently registered? You can apply and complete registration within 3–6 months of starting.
  • Mandatory pre-employment checks include PVG Scheme and overseas criminal record checks if applicable.
  • A confirmed offer is subject to these checks and eligibility to work in the UK, along with qualifications and fitness for the post.

Working at Perth & Kinross Council

Our values and behaviours influence our work and support the delivery of key priorities. In your application (and if invited to interview), you will be asked to describe situations that demonstrate the criteria required for the role and our values and behaviours.

Benefits

  • A generous annual leave package
  • 6 public holidays plus an additional discretionary day
  • Eligibility to join the pension scheme
  • Family-friendly policies and flexible working arrangements
  • Access to a range of benefits and wellbeing support

Next Steps

We welcome applications from everyone. For more information, contact Helen Roach, Area Co-ordinator, or Susan Johnstone, Team Leader, by email to learn more.

To apply, click \”APPLY NOW\”.

External candidates should provide contact details for two references, including at least one from a current or most recent employer. We are an equal opportunities employer and operate a Disability Confident scheme. If you require reasonable adjustments, please contact the hiring manager.

Note: This role requires working with children and/or protected adults and may require PVG scheme updates or checks under the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020.

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Play Assistant employer: Perth & Kinross Council

Perth & Kinross Council is an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding role as a Play Assistant at Langtoon Kids Club, where you can make a meaningful impact on children's lives. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to training opportunities and support towards achieving a recognised qualification, all within a family-friendly work culture that values flexibility and wellbeing. Enjoy generous annual leave, public holidays, and the chance to be part of a supportive team dedicated to providing high-quality care and stimulating activities for children.
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Contact Detail:

Perth & Kinross Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Play Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the values and behaviours of Perth & Kinross Council. During your interview, be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences that align with these values, as this will demonstrate your fit for the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your passion for working with children by engaging in relevant activities or volunteering. This hands-on experience can provide you with great stories to share during your interview, highlighting your commitment and understanding of child development.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss how you would create a safe and inclusive environment for children. Think about specific strategies you could implement to foster trust and safety, as this is crucial for the role of a Play Assistant.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the types of activities that are popular in after-school care settings, such as arts and crafts or physical play. Being knowledgeable about these can help you suggest ideas during your interview, showing your proactive approach to the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Play Assistant

Childcare Knowledge
Communication Skills
Patience and Compassion
Creativity in Activity Planning
Teamwork and Collaboration
Flexibility and Adaptability
Understanding of Child Development
Safety Awareness
Problem-Solving Skills
Empathy and Sensitivity
Organisational Skills
Commitment to Professional Development
Ability to Foster Trust
Conflict Resolution Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Play Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experiences align with these requirements.

Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children or in childcare settings. Use specific examples to demonstrate your sensitivity, patience, and ability to create a safe environment for children.

Align with Values: Perth & Kinross Council values are important. In your application, reflect on situations where you have demonstrated similar values and behaviours, particularly in relation to teamwork and supporting children's development.

Prepare References: Ensure you have contact details for two references ready, including one from a current or most recent employer. Inform your referees about the role you are applying for so they can provide relevant insights into your suitability.

How to prepare for a job interview at Perth & Kinross Council

✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children

Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with children during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or activities that demonstrate your commitment to fostering a safe and engaging environment for kids.

✨Prepare Examples of Relevant Situations

Be ready to discuss specific situations where you have successfully engaged with children or contributed to their learning and development. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.

✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Teamwork Skills

Since the role requires a flexible approach and collaboration with the Kids Club Team, emphasise your ability to adapt to changing circumstances and work effectively within a team. Share examples of how you've done this in previous roles.

✨Understand the Importance of Safety and Trust

Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment for children. Discuss how you would approach building relationships with both children and their families to foster a sense of security.

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