At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 support for a Reception-aged pupil through play-based learning.
- Company: Join a supportive school environment in Horsham.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate and rewarding experience.
- Other info: Ideal for those passionate about child development and emotional support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while nurturing their development.
- Qualifications: Experience in nursery, early years, or playwork settings preferred.
The predicted salary is between 22 - 23 £ per hour.
Location: Horsham (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 ADHD traits
Nursery Nurse/Playworker employer: The Catch-Up Academy
Join our dedicated team in Horsham, where we prioritise a nurturing and inclusive work culture that values creativity and compassion. As a Nursery Nurse/Playworker, you will benefit from flexible part-time hours, competitive pay, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a child's development while collaborating with supportive colleagues and professionals. We are committed to your professional growth, offering training and resources to enhance your skills in early years education and special needs support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Nurse/Playworker
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years and playwork sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that perfect role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by practising common questions related to supporting children with SEMH needs. We suggest role-playing with a friend or family member to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your enthusiasm for nurturing development through play shine through. We want them to see how much you care about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Nurse/Playworker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children! Share experiences that highlight your caring nature and creativity, especially in play-based learning. We want to know why you’re excited about this role!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Highlight relevant experience with SEMH, ASD, or ADHD traits, and how you've successfully supported children in similar settings. We love seeing how you fit into our team!
Be Specific About Your Skills:When discussing your skills, be specific! Talk about your strategies for emotional regulation, communication, and creating engaging learning environments. We appreciate clear examples of how you’ve made a difference in children's lives.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the StudySmarter family!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Catch-Up Academy
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the specific needs of children with SEMH, ASD, and ADHD traits. Familiarise yourself with play-based learning techniques and how they can be adapted to support individual needs. This knowledge will show your passion and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to create a nurturing environment and support emotional regulation. Think about specific situations where you successfully engaged a child through play or helped them overcome challenges.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to supporting children with SEMH needs. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and methods.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity is key! Let your personality shine through during the interview. Share your passion for working with children and your creative ideas for play-based learning. Building a connection with the interviewer can make a lasting impression.
