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- Tasks: Provide 1:1 support for a Reception-aged pupil through play-based learning.
- Company: Supportive school environment in Dorking, Surrey.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, part-time hours, and ongoing support.
- Other info: Join a nurturing team dedicated to early years development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a child's development and well-being.
- Qualifications: Experience in nursery or playwork settings; understanding of SEMH, ASD, or ADHD is a plus.
Location: Dorking, Surrey (School-based)
Salary: £22-23 per hour
Hours: Part-time
About the Role
We are seeking a caring, patient and creative Nursery Nurse / Playworker to provide 1:1 support for a Reception-aged pupil within a school setting in Dorking. The pupil presents with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, with potential ASD and ADHD traits. The role focuses on supporting engagement through play-based learning, emotional regulation and building trusting relationships to help the child access learning in a meaningful and supportive way. This is a highly rewarding 1:1 role ideal for someone with an early years, nursery or playwork background who is passionate about nurturing development through play and interaction.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver 1:1 support through play-based and child-led learning
- Create a safe, nurturing and engaging learning environment
- Support emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
- Encourage communication, social interaction and early learning skills
- Adapt activities to meet individual needs and interests
- Support with nappy changing and toileting as required
- Work closely with school staff, SENCOs and external professionals
- Monitor and contribute to progress tracking
The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
- Experience working in a nursery, early years or playwork setting
- Confidence supporting children with SEMH, ASD and/or ADHD (desirable)
- A strong understanding of learning through play
- A calm, patient and nurturing approach
- Ability to build strong, trusting relationships with children
- Experience supporting emotional regulation and behaviour
- Relevant qualifications (Level 2/3 Childcare, EYFS, SEN experience, etc. desirable but not essential)
What We Offer
- Supportive school-based environment
- Opportunity to work 1:1 and make a real impact
- Consistent and meaningful role
- Ongoing support and guidance
If you are passionate about early years development and believe in the power of play-based, relational support, we would love to hear from you.
Nursery Nurse/Playworker in Cranleigh employer: The Catch-Up Academy
Contact Detail:
The Catch-Up Academy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Nurse/Playworker in Cranleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years and playwork sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for a role like the Nursery Nurse/Playworker position. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to supporting children with SEMH, ASD, and ADHD. We recommend using real-life examples from your experience to showcase your skills and approach. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for play-based learning! During interviews or networking events, share your ideas on how to create engaging activities that support emotional regulation and social interaction. This will demonstrate your commitment to nurturing development through play.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Nurse/Playworker in Cranleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for early years development shine through. Share specific experiences where you've made a difference in a child's life, especially in play-based settings.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially with children who have SEMH, ASD, or ADHD needs. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Personable: In your cover letter, adopt a friendly tone and express your nurturing approach. We’re looking for someone who can build trusting relationships, so let us know how you connect with children and support their emotional needs.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quicker. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Catch-Up Academy
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role inside out. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, especially around play-based learning and supporting children with SEMH needs. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in nurturing development through play. Think about times when you've successfully supported a child with similar needs or created engaging learning environments. Real-life stories can make a big impact!
✨Demonstrate Your Approach
During the interview, convey your calm and patient approach. You might even want to discuss strategies you’ve used for emotional regulation or positive behaviour support. This will reassure the interviewers that you have the right mindset for this nurturing role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to supporting children with SEMH needs or how they foster collaboration between staff and external professionals. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to making a real impact in the role.