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Job description

The successful candidate will work directly with children while supporting, guiding and motivating the staff team. They will contribute ideas and help create a welcoming, inclusive and enjoyable environment where children are listened to, supported and encouraged to thrive.

Responsibilities

• Support the Leader in the day-to-day running of the Club and provide a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment.
• Plan and support age-appropriate indoor and outdoor play opportunities that reflect children's interests, choices, abilities and individual needs.
• Promote equality, inclusion and participation, including supporting children with additional needs.
• Support children with homework and provide snacks as required.
• Build positive relationships with children based on trust, respect and appropriate professional boundaries.
• Ensure the Club operates in accordance with registration requirements, policies and procedures and the requirements of the relevant HSC Trust.
• Support the Club's Designated Safeguarding/Child Protection Officer and, where formally delegated, act in their absence, ensuring concerns are reported and acted upon appropriately.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle information relating to children, families and staff appropriately.
• Help maintain a safe environment through safety checks, fire drills and emergency procedures.
• Ensure accidents, incidents and other relevant events are recorded and reported in accordance with Club procedures.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels and staff-to-child ratios are maintained in accordance with the Club's registration requirements and relevant HSC Trust requirements.
• Provide day-to-day guidance, support and encouragement to staff and raise concerns regarding performance, conduct or practice.
• In the absence of the Club Leader, take responsibility for the safe and effective day-to-day operation of the Club, including staffing, safeguarding, health and safety, activities, parent communication, records and compliance.
• Lead by example and contribute to a positive, supportive team environment. Communicate professionally and positively with parents/carers regarding children's experiences, wellbeing and any relevant concerns.
• Maintain positive working relationships with schools and relevant professionals where appropriate.
• Assist with administration, including daily registers, waiting lists, staff timesheets and parent payments.
• Maintain accurate records and complete required documentation.
• Complete training, apply learning in practice and contribute to the ongoing development of the Club.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Level 5 Diploma in Playwork or Level 5 Diploma in Child Care, Learning and Development (CCLD), or a relevant occupational qualification in early years , social work, nursing, youth work, teaching or health visiting, subject to the requirements.
• Applicants working towards the required Level 5 qualification may be considered where registered with a recognised Further Education College or training provider and making satisfactory progress, subject to HSC Trust requirements.
• Current Paediatric First Aid qualification or prepared to achieve qualification within a 3 month period.
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade C or above (or equivalent), or demonstrable equivalent literacy and numeracy skills.
• Minimum of 2 years paid experience working with children in play, youth, education or day care settings, preferably with children aged 4 - 11 year olds.
• Experience of leadership or management within a childcare/playwork setting.
• Experience of supervising, supporting or mentoring staff.
• Experience of safeguarding and responding appropriately to children's welfare concerns.
• Experience of planning and delivering activities for school-age children.
• Understanding of child development, play and the individual needs of school-age children.
• Good understanding of safeguarding, child protection and whistleblowing procedures.
• Clear understanding of health and safety requirements within a childcare setting.
• Understanding of inclusion and supporting children with additional needs.
• Ability to lead and support a team and remain calm and professional under pressure.
• Communication, organisational and record-keeping skills.
• IT skills and confidence using online systems and electronic records.

Desirable Skills

• Additional training in safeguarding/child protection.
• Training in supporting children with additional needs.
• Health and safety training.
• Food Hygiene qualification.
• Experience of deputising for a manager or team leader.

Further Information

To find out more about the job please email: ann@theworkspacegroup.org. or contact Workspace: 028 79628113