Playworker

Playworker

About YMCA St Paul’s Group:   

YMCA St Paul's Group is a charity that aims to support and empower young people and communities throughout London by providing life-changing youth work, essential community services, inclusive health and wellbeing centres, and supported accommodation for those who are at risk of homelessness. The organisation aims to create thriving places for young people and flourishing communities. With a commitment to long-term transformation in mind, body, and spirit, YMCA St Paul's Group has served the community for over 150 years.

About the Role:

As a Playworker at YMCA St Paul's Group, you'll play a pivotal role in our Children and Family Work Department. This position involves creating a joyful and safe environment for children attending our Breakfast and After School Clubs. Your work will be crucial in providing care and an enriching experience that aids in children's development and supports parents in their personal and professional journeys. You will be the cornerstone of our commitment to delivering high-quality childcare, engaging with children through creative play and learning activities. Each day presents a new opportunity to positively influence young lives and be part of a team that values the wellbeing and growth of our community's children.

Key Responsibilities:

Development-Focused Childcare: Your primary role will involve providing a stimulating and secure setting for children to play, learn, and grow. You will help shape their early experiences through your interaction and engagement, fostering both enjoyment and educational development.

Activity Planning: You will be instrumental in devising and implementing various play activities. These activities will not only be fun but will also stimulate learning and creativity, being in line with our weekly and term activity programs.

Building Relationships: A significant part of your role will be to develop and maintain strong, positive relationships with all the children in our care, ensuring that each child feels valued and supported.

Educational Frameworks: You will apply the Early Years Foundation Stage framework in our play settings, including responsibilities such as observing and assessing children and offering tailored support to each child as a key worker.

Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication with parents and carers is key. You will be a point of contact, offering insights and updates on their child's experiences and progress. Furthermore, your role involves working in unison with other staff and volunteers, promoting effective teamwork and a collaborative atmosphere.

Safety and Compliance: Upholding health and safety standards is paramount. You will be responsible for ensuring a safe environment for the children, including carrying out risk assessments and adhering to all relevant policies and procedures.

Becoming a Playworker at YMCA St Paul’s Group places you at the heart of a caring, supportive community focused on enriching children's lives. This role offers a dynamic range of duties, keeping you engaged and constantly contributing to the wellbeing and development of the children we serve. Your commitment to providing exceptional care and creating a nurturing environment will not only be a source of personal pride but will make a lasting impact on the children and families we support. Join us in making a difference, one child at a time.

What we offer:  

At YMCA St Paul's Group, we prioritise improving diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the services we provide. We value your authenticity and unique voice and encourage you to share your opinions. You will have the opportunity to be a catalyst for change by actively participating in our Employee Resource Groups.

As a team member, you can learn, grow, and reach your full potential. We are committed to your development and will support your personal growth journey. Our comprehensive learning and development program includes training, qualifications, and on-the-job experience, ensuring that you have the skills necessary for your role while offering continuous development and advancement opportunities.

In addition, you will have access to a range of benefits which will support you in mind, body, and spirit, which include:

• Free gym access across our sites.
• Discounts from major retailers and supermarkets.
• Free access to well-being and counselling services.
• The ability to work from a range of outer London work locations.
• Career development programmes to help you thrive.
• Family-friendly policies to help you balance work-life, including enhanced maternity pay.
• Life Assurance (permanent contracts only).
• For a complete list of our staff benefits, please click here.