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- Tasks: Supervise and engage children during lunchtime, promoting safe and enriching play experiences.
- Company: Winston Way Academy, part of United Learning, dedicated to high-quality education.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, 26 days leave, professional development, and health support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a supportive work environment.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a commitment to safeguarding children.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Winston Way is a three-form entry primary school in Ilford, East London, catering for children from Nursery to Year 6 (3–11-year-olds) with 660 children currently on roll. The school values its diverse community and takes pride in its children and their achievements. All staff believe that students can realise their aspirations, whether it is University or the career of their choice. The school aims to offer a broad, engaging curriculum that provides students with skills applicable in all areas of life.
Winston Way Academy is part of United Learning, a large multi-academy trust across England, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people. All positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
About the Role:
Winston Way Academy is seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Opal Play Coordinator to join our team. This role involves ensuring a positive lunchtime experience and promoting enriching play opportunities in line with our school ethos and play policy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supervise pupils in the lunch hall and playground during lunchtime, ensuring their safety and wellbeing.
- Create stimulating outdoor environments and facilitate meaningful, child-initiated play.
- Promote positive behaviour and intervene appropriately when needed.
- Organise and maintain play resources, ensuring accessibility and quality.
- Support school initiatives, including wellbeing strategies and collaborative projects.
- Assist with lunchtime dining and related administrative tasks.
- Encourage inclusive play and social interaction.
- Ensure a safe and nurturing environment.
- Support the school’s policies and safeguarding procedures.
What we’re looking for:
- Strong communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.
- Ability to engage and supervise children positively.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils.
- Reliable, flexible, and proactive approach.
- Experience in a school environment and knowledge of playwork principles (desirable).
- A good understanding of health and safety.
- A team player with a positive attitude.
What We Offer:
- Highly competitive pay above national average.
- 26 days annual leave plus 8 statutory bank holidays per annum.
- An additional day’s paid leave awarded per annum.
- Access to an outstanding professional development programme.
- A respectful working environment.
- Supportive, friendly colleagues committed to each other’s professional development.
- Opportunities to work collaboratively with colleagues across the Cluster and United Learning.
- Excellent employee benefits including a highly sought-after pension scheme with high employer contributions.
- Access to training and an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for mental health and wellbeing support.
- Health Cash Plan available to staff with a minimum of 6 months of service.
- Cycle to work scheme and discounted Gym Membership.
- Employee benefits through Westfield Rewards.
The deadline for applications is 22 February 2026. It is strongly recommended that candidates submit their applications as soon as possible. Only successful shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
United Learning is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Cluster Finance Officer (Maternity Cover) employer: Winstonwayacademy
Contact Detail:
Winstonwayacademy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cluster Finance Officer (Maternity Cover)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at schools like Winston Way. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a job before it’s even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research Winston Way Academy and United Learning thoroughly. Understand their values and how you can contribute to their mission of providing excellent education. Tailor your answers to show you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have experience in playwork or working with children, be ready to share specific examples during interviews. Highlight how your background aligns with the role of Opal Play Coordinator.
✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Cluster Finance Officer (Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and ethos of Winston Way Academy. Highlight your experience with children and how you can contribute to creating a positive lunchtime environment.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through! Share specific examples of how you've engaged with kids in the past and how you plan to promote inclusive play at our school.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps us keep track of all applications efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Winstonwayacademy
✨Know the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to understand Winston Way Academy's values and mission. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This will help you align your answers with their ethos during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Playwork Knowledge
Since the role involves creating stimulating play environments, be prepared to discuss your understanding of playwork principles. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully engaged children in meaningful play and how you can apply that at Winston Way.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
As an Opal Play Coordinator, you'll need to communicate effectively with both children and staff. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to role-play scenarios where you have to manage behaviour or facilitate play to showcase your interpersonal skills.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's initiatives, team dynamics, or professional development opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
