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- Tasks: Plan and deliver fun activities for children aged 4-12 in an after school club.
- Company: Thameside Primary School, dedicated to nurturing children's development.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, flexible hours, and a rewarding role in childcare.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's lives while having fun every day!
- Qualifications: Passion for supporting children and good communication skills required.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy training opportunities in childcare.
Overview
Up to 15 hours per week, Monday to Friday – Term time only – Start date: September 2025 (as soon as possible). After school club operates from 3.00pm – 6.00pm (3 hours per day).
We are looking for passionate and creative play assistant to join our school run Wraparound Care Service. As a member of the Aftercare Team, you will gain valuable experience assisting in delivering a wide range of engaging and participative childcare activities; working with children from ages 4 – 12.
Our Play Assistants are passionate, enthusiastic and thrive in a highly rewarding role that facilitates children’s development throughout their time in Aftercare.
This is a demanding but very rewarding role suited to someone with an interest in supporting children and should ideally have some relevant experience of working alongside children. You should be self-motivated, have good communication skills and be able to engage with children positively.
Responsibilities
- Plan and deliver safe activities with groups of children from all class ranges
- Engage with children encouraging them to participate in activities to promote learning and social development
- Support children on a 1:1 basis who have complex needs (if required)
- Encourage fair and caring behaviour among the children
- Support with managing behaviour in line with school policies
- Supporting the enactment of Health and Safety requirements as directed
- Encourage independence and self-esteem
- Ensure safety and safeguarding procedures are adhered to ensure children are kept safe
- Assist with food preparation for serving afterschool tea/snacks
- Complete various training courses including Food Hygiene and Child Safeguarding
Requirements / Qualifications
You can also download an application pack via the school’s website. The role is suitable for someone with an interest in supporting children and who is self-motivated with good communication skills and the ability to engage with children positively.
Closing date: Sunday 21st September 2025, but interviews will be offered on receipt of strong applications.
The school is committed to safeguarding children and is an equal opportunity provider. All appointments are made subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS disclosure.
Application information: www.thameside.reading.sch.uk (Go to: About us, Come & Work for us!) or email to request an application pack. Please email: or call 0118 937 5551.
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After School Club Play Assistant - Thameside Primary School employer: Reading Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Reading Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land After School Club Play Assistant - Thameside Primary School
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Thameside Primary School and its values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local community groups. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you would engage with children in various scenarios. Have some fun activity ideas ready to share, as this shows your creativity and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join the team at Thameside Primary School.
We think you need these skills to ace After School Club Play Assistant - Thameside Primary School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and ready to engage with kids in a fun and creative way.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in childcare or similar roles. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for, so don’t hold back on sharing those stories!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to spot. A well-structured application helps us see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you can find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reading Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Play Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities listed in the job description, especially around engaging with children and promoting their development. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share any relevant experiences you've had, whether it's volunteering, babysitting, or previous roles. The school is looking for someone who is passionate about supporting children's growth, so make sure they see that in you!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations with children, such as managing behaviour or encouraging participation in activities. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar challenges. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to engage positively with children.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer. This could be about the types of activities you might plan or how the school supports its staff in training. Asking questions shows your interest in the role and helps you determine if it’s the right fit for you.
