At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate play services, ensuring children thrive through engaging activities.
- Company: Join Play Midlothian, a charity dedicated to supporting children's health and wellbeing through play.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and the chance to make a real difference in children's lives.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for training and community engagement.
- Why this job: Be a key player in creating fun, safe play environments for kids aged 0-13.
- Qualifications: Experience in playwork or working with children, plus a love for the outdoors.
The predicted salary is between 25165 - 27225 £ per year.
Are you passionate about play, and ready to lead the practicalities of delivery? We are seeking a Team Leader to coordinate and deliver high-quality, self-directed play opportunities across Midlothian. This is a frontline role, combining practical delivery with day-to-day coordination and some line management.
About Play Midlothian
About Play MidlothianPlay Midlothian is a registered charity (no. SC025474) working to enable every child in Midlothian to thrive through play by creating opportunities, removing barriers and addressing inequalities. We have an office base at the One Dalkeith Business Hub in central Dalkeith, but deliver services throughout Midlothian, and if commissioned, beyond.
About the Role
On appointment, the postholder will lead Out2Play (enabling children to play outside in greenspaces close to their homes) and some of our Play in Mind sessions (supporting children's mental health through adventurous play in woodlands). The postholder will also staff other sessions run by Play Midlothian, working across each of our services. We champion self-directed play, with a focus on loose parts, and use varied community settings to create rich play opportunities. A high proportion of sessions take place outdoors, all year round. Travel and transportation of play resources to multiple sites across Midlothian is required for successful delivery of our services. Most sessions take place after school hours and at weekends, with some during the school day, so flexibility is required, though we share out weekend working on a rota so that everyone gets predictable weekends off.
This role would suit someone with playwork, youth work or family support experience who is ready to step into frontline management — or an existing manager looking for a values-led, varied, community-based role. If you are enthusiastic about enabling children to play in their own ways, we would love to hear from you.
Team Leader in Dalkeith employer: Play Midlothian
Play Midlothian is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its team members while fostering a vibrant work culture centred around creativity and community engagement. With a strong commitment to providing meaningful play opportunities for children, employees benefit from professional growth through hands-on experience in outdoor play facilitation and leadership, all within the beautiful greenspaces of Midlothian. Join us to make a real difference in the lives of children and families, while enjoying a supportive environment that values innovation and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Team Leader in Dalkeith
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, dive into Play Midlothian's mission and values. Understanding their focus on play and community will help you connect your experiences to what they’re all about.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your adaptability! Since the role requires flexibility in working hours and locations, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully adapted to changing situations in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your play skills to the table! Think of creative ways you can contribute to the Out2Play service. Whether it’s unique play ideas or training methods, showcasing your playwork knowledge will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on being part of the Play Midlothian team!
We think you need these skills to ace Team Leader in Dalkeith
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your playful and adaptable side. Remember, we’re looking for someone confident and organised, so highlight those traits in your writing.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the role of Team Leader. Mention specific experiences that relate to coordinating services and working with children. This will show us that you understand what the job entails and that you’re ready to jump in!
Show Your Passion for Play:Since our focus is on enabling children to thrive through play, it’s important to express your passion for this area. Share any relevant experiences or ideas you have about playwork and how you can contribute to our mission at Play Midlothian.
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. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our services there, which can help you craft a standout application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Play Midlothian
✨Know Your Playwork
Make sure you brush up on your playwork knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with different play techniques and approaches, especially those relevant to self-directed play. This will show your passion for the role and your understanding of how play benefits children's development.
✨Show Your Adaptability
Since the role requires flexibility in working hours and locations, be prepared to discuss examples from your past where you've successfully adapted to changing circumstances. Highlighting your ability to thrive in dynamic environments will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with the Community
Research Play Midlothian's current services and community involvement. Be ready to share ideas on how you could enhance these services or introduce new initiatives. This demonstrates your commitment to the organisation's mission and your proactive approach to community engagement.
✨Prepare for the Play Session
Since you'll be attending a play session before the interview, think about how you can actively engage with the children and staff during this time. Use it as an opportunity to showcase your play skills and build rapport with the team, which could give you an edge in the interview.
