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- Tasks: Join us as a Playworker, creating fun and inclusive play experiences for children.
- Company: Be part of Heriot's, a community-focused school with a rich history since 1628.
- Benefits: Enjoy 37 days holiday, generous pension, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a supportive and happy environment.
- Qualifications: Previous experience is a plus; must register with the Scottish Social Services Council.
- Other info: This role involves regulated work with vulnerable children; parking is not available.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and creative Playworker to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about working with children and dedicated to facilitating a high standard of physical, emotional, social, and intellectual care through play. You will be responsible for creating and maintaining a stimulating and inclusive play environment where every child feels valued.
The Playworker is part of the Heriot\’s Wrap Around Care (WAC) team, which delivers care for up to 120 children throughout the year outside of school hours and during holiday periods. Playworkers work as a team to ensure the smooth, day-to-day functioning of the WAC in accordance with WAC policies.
Main Responsibilities:
Please see attached job description for full details.
Ideal Candidate:
- Previous experience within a similar environment would be advantageous.
- You must be a member or willing to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).
Additional Information
Heriot’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007, and the successful candidates will be required to obtain membership of the PVG scheme.
Please note that parking is not available on our campus
George Heriot’s Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
George Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust, Scottish Charity number SC011463
Package Description:
When you join the team at Heriot’s, you become part of our community, where the contribution of every individual is important and valued. The Heriot’s motto, to “distribute chearfullie”, is at the heart of the school — distributing kindness, support, and generosity, remains as alive today as it was in 1628 when George Heriot founded the school.
Our most recent staff survey reported that 97% of employees at Heriot’s feel motivated and happy to work here, and we aim to provide a friendly, welcoming, and supportive environment for all of our people. This includes:
- Enhanced holiday allowance (37 days minimum)
- Generous pension scheme (up to 11% employer contribution with 5% employee contribution)
- Enhanced sick pay, maternity and paternity pay
- Family-friendly policies (including Personal Emergency Leave Days)
- Annual review and opportunities for training and continued professional development
- Travel to work schemes
- School Fee Remission (non-contractual benefit)
- Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 counselling helpline and retail discounts
- Opportunities for involvement in the wider school community
We aim to attract and retain a diverse group of talented people, committed to upholding the school’s ethos. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
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Play Worker (2 Positions, 1 x Monday to Thursday and 1 x Monday to Friday, 1.30pm-5.45pm, Term-[...] employer: Scottish Council of Independent Schools
Contact Detail:
Scottish Council of Independent Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Play Worker (2 Positions, 1 x Monday to Thursday and 1 x Monday to Friday, 1.30pm-5.45pm, Term-[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values and ethos of Heriot's. Understanding their commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children will help you align your responses during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your creativity and enthusiasm for working with children by preparing examples of activities or play ideas you’ve implemented in the past. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former Playworkers at Heriot's if possible. They can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss how you would create an inclusive environment for all children. Think about specific strategies you would use to ensure every child feels valued and included in play activities.
We think you need these skills to ace Play Worker (2 Positions, 1 x Monday to Thursday and 1 x Monday to Friday, 1.30pm-5.45pm, Term-[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Playworker position. Highlight your passion for working with children and any relevant experience you have.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your experience in childcare or similar environments. Emphasise any skills related to creating inclusive play environments and your ability to work as part of a team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to safeguarding children's welfare. Mention specific examples of how you've facilitated play or supported children's development in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have qualifications related to childcare or are a member of the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), make sure to mention these in your application. This will demonstrate your commitment to professional standards in childcare.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Council of Independent Schools
✨Show Your Passion for Play
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and facilitating play. Share specific examples of how you've created engaging play environments in the past, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have previous experience in a similar environment, be ready to discuss it in detail. Talk about your responsibilities, the age groups you worked with, and any challenges you overcame, as this will show your capability to handle the role effectively.
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Familiarise yourself with Heriot’s ethos and values, especially the motto 'distribute chearfullie'. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this culture and support the welfare of children, which is a key aspect of the job.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they measure success in the role. It shows your interest and helps you assess if the position is right for you.
