Recruiting Playworkers

The role of the Playworker is one of many facets, we create and enable environments where children are allowed to be children. We offer support carefully through observation and recognising when its necessary or not to intervene. We step back when we are not needed, although always thinking and watching. We are seen but sometimes unseen, and we are resourceful at all times.

Craig Judson

Manager, MASKK

MASKK are currently looking to employ some more Playworkers who are:

  • fun
  • patient
  • friendly
  • caring
  • not afraid to get messy
  • adaptable
  • willing to always be learning
  • self-motivated
  • proactive
  • understand children just need to play

If that’s you then apply to join our team to support play in our community!

Ideally Playworkers with experience and training, but mainly we are looking for people with a passion for supporting children to be children, people who understand children need to play and training can be provided on the job. We are an inclusive setting and so during sessions our Playworkers also need to be prepared to support children on a 1:1 basis including supporting their emotions. 

Roles Available

After School Playworkers

Playworkers at our after school club collect the children from school and walk with them to the setting. Most sessions this also includes providing additional support for children with special educational needs and disabilities to join too.

These sessions provide children with opportunities to come together and enjoy playing in a safe and stimulating environment. Providing parents/carers with childcare while they work, train or enjoy some adult time.

Working hours would be between 2:45pm and 6:30pm Monday to Friday term time. Hours are flexible with roles avaiable from 6 hours to 18 hours.

Deadline for Applications: 26th August
Expected Start Date: September 

Saturday Club Playworker

Playworkers at our Saturday club ( 33 term time) specifically for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

These sessions provide children with opportunities to come together and enjoy playing in a safe and stimulating environment. Includes supporting children 1:1 and occasionally with personal care.

Working hours would be 9:30am until 3:30pm. Rotas are flexible, perhaps you are just available alternative Saturdays. We plan rotas April to March each year for those who want a set pattern or perhaps you would just like to work when you’re free, our simple rota app helps you see when we need team members and select the shifts you are available.

Deadline for Applications: On-going
Expected Start Date: On-going

The Details

Things to Note:

  • Due to the nature of the work and contractual requirements from the funder we require applicants to be 18 years of age or older, but we do have training placements potentially available for 16 and 17 year olds so still please get in touch.   
  • All roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS check and two references will be required.
  • The applicant should have a suitable qualification in Playwork or Childcare/Early Years, Health & Social Care or Sporting/Coaching (or willingness to work towards one).
  • Preferably also with training or experience in SEND, or be willing to undertake training.
  • All applicants will need to have experience of working with 4-13 year olds, preferably experience of working with children with disabilities in a play environment also.
  • All applicants will need Safeguarding, First Aid, GDPR and Food Safety training, or willing to complete it within their first 3 months (MASKK will provide the access to training online).
  • All team members are required to attend 2 full team meetings held on two Saturdays in the year (July and January – both paid hours).
  • Subject to funding there is potential for additional hours to be offered to support our playcare and community activities too.

Pay Details:

MASKK Aim to be a Real Living Wage Employer.
Current Starting Rate of Pay: £12.00 per hour.
Holidays: Annual leave will be accrued equivalent to 5.6 weeks pro-rata.

How to Apply:

To view a copy of the job description click here: Playworker JD

Download an application form here: MASKK Application

We will only accept fully completed application forms, which can be downloaded using the link above or you can request one and ask questions by emailing hr@maskk.org.uk – due to safeguarding procedures we will not accept CVs only.

Please send completed application forms to hr@maskk.org.uk 

Visits and informal chats can be arranged to, please email to book a time slot.

If you do not feel you have the experience or skills for the role yet, but would like to train with us, you might consider our volunteer programme and Discovering Play. Contact us for more information.