EARLY YEARS EDUCATOR / PLAYWORKER

Fiveways Playcentre is a registered charity and a well-established, community-rooted setting serving children and families across Brighton. We are proud of our beautiful environment, which includes substantial outdoor space that forms a central part of our provision. Rated Good by Ofsted, we are committed to maintaining and building on our strong foundations as we look to the future.

MAIN TASKS / KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

As an Early Years Educator / Playworker at Fiveways Playcentre, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where children can learn, play and thrive.

Safeguarding & Welfare

Be vigilant to safeguarding and child protection concerns, promoting the welfare and safety of all children at all times

Follow the Playcentre’s safeguarding policies and procedures and report any concerns promptly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead/Officer

Comply fully with policies relating to Safeguarding, Prevent Duty, Inclusion, SEND, Health & Safety

Supporting Children & Play

Provide high-quality care and support, offering appropriate levels of stimulation through purposeful play

Actively contribute to the planning and delivery of a play-based curriculum that meets the individual needs of children

Promote positive behaviour and act as a positive role model in language, conduct, attendance, punctuality and appearance

Support children with additional needs, working closely with the SENCo and following plans provided by external agencies

Key Person Responsibilities

Act as a Key Person for allocated children, building strong relationships with them and their families

Observe, plan and assess children’s development, maintaining accurate records and online learning journals

Liaise effectively with parents, carers and relevant professionals while maintaining confidentiality

Teamwork & Daily Operations

Work collaboratively as part of the team to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the Playcentre

Set up and maintain safe, clean and stimulating indoor and outdoor environments

Monitor play resources and report shortages or concerns to the Manager

Attend staff meetings, training sessions and contribute positively to team development

Practical Duties

Prepare healthy snacks/meals and supervise mealtimes

Support children during outings and ensure all safety procedures are followed

Collect children from local Infant and Junior schools and escort them safely to the Playcentre (where applicable)

Carry out cleaning, tidying, and domestic tasks as required, including cleaning toys and equipment

Flexibility & Additional Duties

Be flexible in working practices, undertaking additional reasonable duties as required

Support fundraising events, holiday clubs and special activities when needed

Personal Specification

Essential

• Relevant Early Years / Childcare qualification
• Experience working in an early years or play setting
• Experience as a Key Person and completing observations and learning journals
• Knowledge of SEND and working with outside agencies
• First Aid or Safeguarding training
• A genuine passion for working with children
• Understanding of the importance of play in children’s learning and development
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures (or willingness to undertake training)
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Good communication skills with children, parents/carers and colleagues
• Ability to promote positive behaviour and act as a positive role model
• Willingness to be flexible and support the wider needs of the setting
• Commitment to inclusion, equality and supporting children with additional needs

Personal Qualities

• Warm, caring and approachable
• Reliable, punctual and well organised
• Enthusiastic, creative and proactive
• Calm, patient and resilient
• Willing to learn and develop professionally