Are you passionate about working with children or children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and making a meaningful difference in their lives?
The Children’s Respite Trust is seeking an enthusiastic and caring individual with relevant or similar experience to join our friendly team at our centre in Uckfield.
About the Role
Position: Lead SEN Play Worker
Hours: 14 hours per week (after school and school holidays – flexible and negotiable)
Salary: £26,000 (pro rata)
Location: Uckfield – Just off the High Street
Schedule: Weekdays only – no weekends or bank holidays
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for candidates who have experience working with children, ideally those with SEND, or in a similar care or educational setting.
You should be:
- A positive, energetic team player who enjoys working with children
- Confident in leading a team and making decisions during a shift
- Skilled at planning and adapting activities to meet diverse needs
- Highly responsible, with a strong understanding of safeguarding and child wellbeing
- A good communicator with strong teamwork and IT skills
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate shifts, acting as the senior member of staff on duty
- Support, guide and role model best practice for Play Workers
- Plan and deliver engaging, inclusive activities tailored to children aged 4–18 with SEND
- Ensure safeguarding procedures are fully adhered to at all times
- Oversee and promote health & safety standards, including risk assessments and safe practice
- Take responsibility for the wellbeing, safety and individual needs of each child
- Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues
- Support with record keeping, communication, and general centre organisation
Requirements
- Experience working with children with SEND or in a similar care/education role (essential)
- Previous experience in a senior/support/lead role (desirable)
- Education/childcare/playworker qualification (desirable, but training will be provided)
- GCSE Grade 4 or above in English and Maths preferred (or willingness to work towards equivalent)
- Have a full driving licence
What We Offer
- A flexible working pattern
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Be part of an award-winning, supportive team
- Ongoing training and development
- DBS, First Aid & Safeguarding training provided
- A positive, inclusive working environment
- The opportunity to make a real difference in children’s lives
Important Information
The safety and wellbeing of children in our care is our top priority. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £26,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Private medical insurance
Work Location: In person
