Playworker

Playworker

Grays Full-Time No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support children with disabilities in fun and engaging activities during short breaks.
  • Company: Join a caring team dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
  • Benefits: Flexible hours, rewarding experience, and the chance to develop your skills.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact while having fun and building relationships with amazing kids.
  • Qualifications: Experience with disabled children is a plus, but not essential.
  • Other info: Great opportunity for personal growth and to gain valuable experience.

Overview

Grade: C β€’ Casual Contract β€’ Zero Hours: Various Hours available (Saturdays, after school hours and school holidays)

The Disabled Children\’s Short Breaks and Outreach Service provide short break sessions for children after school, during weekends and during school holidays.

Are you enthusiastic and would like to work with our wonderful children? We are looking for staff that will support qualified centre staff and also lead and facilitate short break sessions to provide children with safe fun and challenging activities. You will be working with children aged 4-19 with a broad spectrum of needs.

Responsibilities

  • Directly support children attending the Disabled Children\’s Short Breaks and Outreach Service.
  • Assist in the setting up and putting away of activities/equipment during sessions.
  • Where necessary to plan and lead sessions (dependant on qualification) taking responsibility for children and staff.
  • Assist in maintaining the play area; ensuring safety, cleanliness and providing an enriching learning environment for our children.
  • Develop positive relationships with the children and young people who attend our services.
  • Engage and support children and young people in social, recreational decision making opportunities.
  • Support the developmental needs of the children and young people accessing our service.
  • Work effectively with colleagues to provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children and young people accessing our service.
  • As part of the Safer Recruitment process, Gap Management is required for all Safeguarding roles. Please complete the Gaps in Employment grid provided (refer to the example document for guidance) and upload it under Miscellaneous Documents as part of your application.
  • If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.
  • Gaps in Employment Form
  • Gaps in Employment Example
  • Applicants who hold a Visa must provide valid evidence of their right to work in the UK for this role. If you are applying under the Skilled Worker Visa route for supplementary employment, please ensure the role is eligible by reviewing the criteria outlined on the official government website: Skilled Worker visa: eligible occupations and codes – GOV.UK
  • It is desirable for successful candidates to hold a Level 3 childcare qualification, but not essential.
  • Successful applicants will have previous experience of direct work with disabled children.

Additional information

Disability Confident

A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to the official GOV.UK Disability Confident page.

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Playworker employer: Thurrock Council

As a Playworker with our Disabled Children's Short Breaks and Outreach Service, you will be part of a compassionate team dedicated to providing enriching experiences for children with diverse needs. Our flexible zero-hours contracts allow you to work around your schedule, whether on weekends or during school holidays, while fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises personal growth and development. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families in a safe and stimulating environment.
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Contact Detail:

Thurrock Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🀫

We think this is how you could land Playworker

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the organisation! Research their values and mission, especially how they support disabled children. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply through our website.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for the interview by thinking about specific examples from your past experiences. Be ready to discuss how you've supported children in similar settings, as this will demonstrate your capability and enthusiasm for the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your passion for working with children.

We think you need these skills to ace Playworker

Childcare Qualification
Experience with Disabled Children
Activity Planning
Safety Awareness
Relationship Building
Engagement Skills
Support for Developmental Needs
Teamwork
Communication Skills
Creativity in Activity Facilitation
Adaptability
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫑

Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for working with children shine through in your application. We want to see how excited you are about supporting our wonderful kids and creating a fun, safe environment for them.

Highlight Relevant Experience: If you've worked with disabled children before, make sure to mention it! We love seeing candidates who have hands-on experience, so share any stories or examples that showcase your skills.

Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read the job description carefully and tailor your application to match. Use similar language and highlight how your background aligns with the responsibilities we’ve outlined.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!

How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council

✨Know Your Stuff

Familiarise yourself with the role of a Playworker and the specific needs of disabled children. Understand the responsibilities outlined in the job description, and think about how your experience aligns with them. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested.

✨Show Your Enthusiasm

Let your passion for working with children shine through during the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your enthusiasm and commitment to providing a safe and fun environment for kids. Employers love to see candidates who are genuinely excited about the role!

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations involving children. Think about examples from your past experience where you've successfully supported children or resolved conflicts. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your approach clearly during the interview.

✨Ask Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the types of activities you might lead or how the team collaborates to support the children. This shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the organisation.

Playworker
Thurrock Council
Location: Grays
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