Inclusion Playworkers are dedicated to supporting children with additional needs, such as disabilities, ADHD, autism, and other challenges, within the play environment. They work collaboratively with staff, families, and other professionals to ensure all children are supported, included, and able to thrive in our setting. They are passionate advocates for inclusive play and child development.
Inclusion Playworker Job Duties:
- Develop and implement care plans tailored to the individual needs of children with additional requirements.
- Provide direct one-to-one and/or small group support to children with additional needs, ensuring they can access and participate in all activities.
- Identify and implement behaviour management strategies to support children in regulating their emotions and behaviour.
- Actively support and guide other Playworkers in understanding and meeting the needs of children with additional needs.
- Liaise with parents, schools, and other professionals (e.g., SENCOs) to ensure a coordinated approach to supporting each child.
- Ensure a safe and inclusive play environment by conducting regular observations and risk assessments, making adjustments as necessary.
- Lead on the development and delivery of inclusive play opportunities tailored to children with additional needs.
- Maintain clear, accurate records of children’s progress and any incidents, ensuring information is shared appropriately and confidentially.
- Communicate with families to provide updates on their child’s time at the club and discuss any relevant concerns or suggestions.
- Participate in team meetings, supervisions, and training to continuously develop understanding of inclusion and best practices in Playwork.
- Uphold the OSCAHS commitment to safeguarding, ensuring all policies and procedures are followed diligently.
Skills/Qualifications:
Essential:
- Strong understanding of additional needs (e.g., ADHD, autism, disabilities) and experience working with children requiring support.
- Knowledge of behaviour management strategies and inclusion practices.
- Ability to build positive, professional relationships with children, families, colleagues, and external professionals.
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal, with sufficient understanding of English to ensure the well-being of the children.
- Proactive and creative approach to play and child development.
- Problem-solving skills and a ‘can do’ attitude.
- Knowledge of safeguarding, equality, and diversity.
- Minimum Level 2 qualification in Childcare, SEN Support, or equivalent.
- Must be 17 years old or older to be included in staff ratios
Desirable:
- SENCO experience or previous role supporting children with additional needs.
- Level 3 or higher in Playwork, Childcare, or similar qualification.
- Basic IT skills for record-keeping and communication.
- First Aid and Food Hygiene certification.
- Driving licence and ability to travel between sites.
Supporting Your Continuing Professional Development (CPD):
- Full induction into the role.
- Regular supervision and mentoring sessions.
- Annual performance reviews to support career growth.
- Ongoing training opportunities, including SEN-focused workshops and qualifications.
Additional Benefits:
- Access to our EAP (Employee Assistance Programme), offering legal and wellbeing support.
- Generous annual leave and birthday leave.
- Free childcare at host schools (subject to availability).
- Uniform provided at no cost.
- Staff discount.
- Pension auto-enrolment.
- Annual staff social events and training days.
Hours & Pay:
- Salary starting at £12.75 per hour, dependent on experience and qualifications.
- 15 hours per week during term time. (Monday to Friday, 15:00 to 18:00, term time only.)
Important Information:
OSCAHS is committed to equality of opportunity, supporting and valuing diversity. We adhere to a formal Equal Opportunities Policy.
We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This position is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure and two satisfactory references.
Pay: From £12.75 per hour
Benefits:
- Childcare
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
