Join Our Team as a Playworker: Empowering the Future of Our Community
Do you love being active and joining in with children's play? Are you the kind of person who can spot a game starting, jump in, and keep up with 6–13-year-olds as they run, climb, and create?
Whether your experience comes from playwork, childcare, or years of working with children and young people, we want someone who can inspire fun, creativity, and confidence. You'll get to bring a wide range of play opportunities to life, from building dens and making arts and crafts, to cooking projects and energetic outdoor games.
This role is perfect for someone who enjoys hands-on work, thrives in a dynamic environment, and wants to see the real impact of play on children's growth and development. You'll be part of a team that values imagination, curiosity, and above all, having fun with the children you support.
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver High-Quality Playwork: Work alongside other Playworkers and community partners to create play opportunities rooted in playwork principles.
* Get Active With the Children: Join in with chasing games, sports, climbing, and energetic outdoor play, helping children build confidence and enjoy movement.
* Engage with the Community: Support outreach and communication so the playground remains a vibrant, well-used space.
* Maintain the Playground: Help with structure building, repairs, and upkeep to keep the playground safe and exciting.
* Create Stimulating Environments: Work with children to design play spaces that offer a wide range of play experiences.
Working Hours
* Term Time: 20 hours per week, Tuesday to Friday (3:30 pm – 7:00 pm, and 11:30 pm – 4:30 pm on Saturdays).
* School Holidays: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday (10:00 am – 6:00 pm).
Why Join Us?
* Community Focused: We strongly welcome applications from local residents of Islington. If you grew up playing on adventure playgrounds yourself, your perspective can add real value.
* Impactful Work: You'll be an advocate for children and young people, helping them develop through play and positive relationships.
* Active and Dynamic Team: Join colleagues who are just as committed to running, climbing, building, and creating playful spaces as they are to supporting children's growth.
What We're Looking For
* Passion and Energy: A love of play, especially physical and active games. You'll need plenty of energy and enthusiasm to keep up with the children.
* Creativity and Fun: Ability to bring a playful, imaginative approach to all activities.
* Great Communicators: Confidence in engaging with children, families, and the community, both verbally and in writing.
* Reliability and Commitment: A dedicated work ethic and ability to adapt to different situations.
* Skills and Experience: Experience volunteering or working with children in a multi-racial inner-city setting is desirable. A playwork, childcare, or related qualification (NVQ Level 2 or above) is great to have—but if you don't have one yet, we can support you to work towards it.
What Else You'll Do
* Deliver best-practice playwork and co-create environments with children.
* Ensure safety, quality, and consultation with children and families are part of daily practice.
* Take responsibility for safeguarding and attend regular free training.
* Support and maintain adventure playground structures and spaces.
* Promote children's voices and participation in shaping the playground.
* Carry out routine admin, health and safety, and cleaning tasks.
Desirable Extras
* First Aid or Food Hygiene qualification.
* Basic knowledge of BSL, Makaton, or PECs.
* Understanding of Ofsted requirements for out-of-school provision.
Commitment to Equal Opportunities
You'll be expected to uphold our Equal Opportunities Policy and contribute to an inclusive, welcoming environment for all children and families.
Special Requirements
This role requires an enhanced DBS check (previously CRB).
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £13.85 per year
Benefits:
* Casual dress
* Company events
* Company pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee discount
Education:
* GCSE or equivalent (required)
Experience:
* Playwork / Childcare: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person