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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage children in fun play activities during prison visits and family events.
- Company: Join POPS, a dedicated team focused on enhancing family connections in challenging environments.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, training opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique role that supports families and creates joyful experiences for children.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required, just a passion for working with children and teamwork.
- Other info: Work includes weekends and bank holidays; perfect for students looking for flexible hours.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Overview
The purpose of the post is to work as part of a team to the wider POPS’ staff team, to ensure that children visiting enjoy a wide range of play activities and experiences on prison visit sessions and family day events. The post holder will oversee play area within the prison visit room hall, providing a range of play activities for 2-5 yr olds who are visiting the establishment. In addition, the post holder will prepare a range of tabletop activities for older children to engage in with the person they are visiting.
Responsibilities
- Ensure age-appropriate play activities are available and supervised on all prison visit sessions and additional family day/ special visit events.
- Arrange and implement a programme of varied play activities, considering the needs and ages of the children visiting the prison.
- Ensure that all play activities are fully planned and set out before children access the play area.
- Maintain hygiene of equipment through regular cleaning
- Work on a rota/shift basis, including weekends and bank holidays.
- Comply with POPS and Prison Policy and Procedures, including Health & Safety and Safeguarding requirements.
- Attend regular supervision sessions with your line manager.
- Participate in training, relevant to the post as required.
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Play Worker employer: POPS
Contact Detail:
POPS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Play Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children aged 2-5 years, as well as older children. Understanding child development and age-appropriate activities will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain experience in similar environments, such as nurseries or community centres. Highlighting your hands-on experience with children in various settings can demonstrate your capability to manage play activities effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Research POPS and their mission. Showing that you understand their values and how they support families can make a positive impression and show your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the field of child care and prison services. Engaging with others who work in similar roles can provide insights and potentially lead to recommendations for your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Play Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Play Worker. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children, especially in play or educational settings. Mention specific activities you've organised or supervised that relate to the role.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your skills in planning and implementing activities for different age groups. Include examples of how you've ensured safety and hygiene in previous roles, as these are crucial for this position.
Personalise Your Application: Make sure to personalise your cover letter by addressing it to the hiring manager if possible. Express your enthusiasm for the role and the importance of providing a positive experience for children visiting the prison.
How to prepare for a job interview at POPS
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Play Worker does, especially in a prison environment. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children aged 2-5 and how to create engaging activities for them.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Be prepared to discuss your ideas for age-appropriate play activities. Think about how you can adapt games and crafts to suit different age groups, and be ready to share examples from your past experiences.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Since this role involves working as part of a team, highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked with others to create a positive environment for children.
✨Know Health & Safety Protocols
Familiarise yourself with health and safety regulations, especially those relevant to working with children in a sensitive environment like a prison. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure a safe play area.
