Playworkers
Becoming a playworker has never been more valuable. With all primary-aged children required to have access to wraparound care by September 2026, this vital provision has been thrust into the spotlight and put playworkers in high demand.
A fantastic, fun, varied and flexible opportunity for anyone who enjoys spending time inspiring and supporting children, being a playworker is so much more than just… play!
Spend time supporting children before and after school and provide valuable learning and social opportunities. You’ll be a valuable part of their day, making sure they get the most out of these sessions.
WAC Setting Lead
As a WAC (Wraparound Care) Setting Lead at Premier Education, the role encompasses several key responsibilities:
These include offering essential support and supervision to play workers and other staff, as well as volunteers. Effective communication with all stakeholders, including schools and parents, is a priority. The Setting Lead operates within the framework of the club’s policies and adheres to the Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines.
They play a crucial role in leading Ofsted inspections, providing support to the Setting Manager. Additionally, managing WAC school liaisons, creating and supporting staff development plans, overseeing the deployment of WAC Playworkers, and facilitating the staff onboarding process are all integral parts of the role.
Playworker
A Premier Education Playworker provides trustworthy childcare before and after school. For example, a wraparound care playworker encourages children to participate in physical activity, whether this be sports such as football and tennis or performing-arts based activities instead.
There will always be something that you as an individual can bring to the session. As a Playworker it will be your responsibility to take care of the children, helping in the transition from school to home life.
Whatever your role in the session, the most important thing is to make children feel listened to and engaged until home time.
Learn more about our Wraparound Care provision
Bellbird Primary School in Sawston, Cambridgeshire, which has around 240 pupils, was using in-house staff to deliver wraparound childcare.
Increasing demand was putting strain on staff and the school wanted to deliver the best service possible, so last summer they called on Premier Education to see if they could help.
Got a query?
Check out our FAQs, or get in touch if you can’t find the answer to your question.
Playworkers plan and supervise a range of activities for children who attend before and after-school clubs (wraparound care), so they can get involved in different crafts and games, but of course they always make sure there are plenty of opportunities to get active!
They also make sure children get some quiet time after school, so they can get on with any homework tasks or reading.
There is an element of administration and a requirement to liaise with parents and school staff.
Playworkers are usually responsible for providing a nutritious breakfast and an after-school snack.
Overall, playworkers make sure children feel welcomed, comfortable, confident and happy.
You definitely need to be fun, and confident in being with children. Having lots of patience is key too! Good communication skills are important as well as being able to work as part of a team.
There are a few different ways you can get into this sort of career. A college course such as a T level in education and early years is a great place to start, but you could always try doing an apprenticeship or even start off by volunteering at a playgroup.
Essential:
- Experience working with children aged 4 to 11.
- Understanding of children’s varied needs and family dynamics.
- Knowledge of quality play care principles and equal opportunities.
- Ability to provide and facilitate safe, creative play.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Proficiency in English to ensure children’s wellbeing.
Desirable:
- Level 2 (or above) qualification in Childcare.
- Experience in a play-based setting.
- IT skills for play and club administration.
- Ability to work independently.
- Training in safeguarding and child protection.
- Current 12-hour Paediatric First Aid Certificate.
- Food Hygiene Certificate.