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- Tasks: Engage children in fun play experiences and create a safe, inclusive environment.
- Company: Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
- Benefits: Paid training, flexible hours, and the chance to make a difference this summer.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and gain valuable experience in youth engagement.
- Why this job: Be a role model and inspire creativity in children while having fun.
- Qualifications: Must be 16+, with strong communication skills and a passion for working with kids.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 20000 £ per year.
Working Hours: 9.45am-1pm and 2pm-5.45pm (7 hours) either: 21 hours a week (either Monday-Wednesday or Thursday-Saturday) or 28 hours a week (either Monday-Thursday or Wednesday-Saturday). Please indicate in your application which shift pattern would be your first and second choice.
Portsmouth City Council's Play and Youth Service run six adventure playgrounds in the city. The playgrounds are staffed by playworkers and are free of charge, allowing children to come and go as they please and direct their own play experience.
We are looking for dynamic, proactive people to join our teams for the summer holidays, engaging with children, young people and families whilst delivering rich play experiences. You will be required to attend mandatory training prior to starting the role for which you will be paid. Training will take place on Thursday 23rd July, 10am - 4:30pm.
The Role:
- Deliver and engage children, young people and families in rich and varied play opportunities.
- Respond with empathy and perception to the play needs of children and young people.
- Recognise the responsibility of being a positive role model for young people, and the integrity and professionalism required to do that.
- Create and contribute to a culture and working practices that recognise, respect and value differences.
- Implement safeguarding and health and safety policies and procedures.
- Conduct site and equipment inspections to check that they are fit for purpose, and support in maintaining a clean, safe environment, reporting any issues to the playground manager.
- Observe and reflect on children's play and social interactions, using these reflections to know when and how best to intervene.
Who is the person?
- To be aged 16 or over.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to adapt communication consistent with different levels of understanding, culture, background and preferences.
- An understanding of safeguarding children.
- A willingness to bring your own interests, skills, experiences and personality to enrich the play opportunities for children and young people.
- An empathic, inquisitive, and creative approach to engaging and working with children and young people as part of a small team.
- An ability to build positive, respectful relationships with children, young people and their families whilst maintaining professional boundaries.
Portsmouth City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Every post is subject to PCC and Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Partnership safer recruitment procedures. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Summer Playworker - Portsmouth in Southsea employer: Portsmouth City Council
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Summer Playworker - Portsmouth in Southsea
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the playgrounds! Before your interview, check out Portsmouth's adventure playgrounds online. Familiarising yourself with their values and activities will help you connect better during the chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you're engaging with the kids, let your own interests shine through. Whether it's storytelling or games, being yourself can create a fun atmosphere that kids will love.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Think about how you'd explain things to different age groups. Being adaptable in your communication will show that you can connect with children from various backgrounds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you can tailor your application to highlight your relevant experiences directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Summer Playworker - Portsmouth in Southsea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Play: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through! Share any experiences you've had that show how you engage with kids and create fun, safe play environments.
Tailor Your Personal Statement: Make sure to address each point in the 'Who is the Person' section. Use specific examples from your life or work that demonstrate your skills and understanding of safeguarding. This is your chance to stand out!
Be Clear About Your Availability: Don’t forget to mention your preferred shift patterns in your application. Whether you’re looking for 21 or 28 hours a week, being upfront about your availability helps us find the best fit for you.
Proofread Before You Submit: Take a moment to read through your application before hitting send. Spelling mistakes or unclear sentences can distract from your great qualifications. A polished application shows us you care!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Playwork Principles
Familiarise yourself with the core principles of playwork, especially how to engage children in rich play experiences. Be ready to discuss how you would create a safe and inclusive environment that respects children's autonomy.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your strong communication skills. Think about times when you've adapted your communication style to connect with different age groups or backgrounds, as this is crucial for engaging with children and families.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Creativity
Be prepared to share specific instances where you've shown empathy and creativity in working with young people. This could be through activities you've led or how you've responded to children's needs during play.
✨Understand Safeguarding Responsibilities
Brush up on safeguarding policies and be ready to discuss their importance. Show that you understand the responsibility of being a positive role model and how you would implement health and safety measures in the playground.