Playworker

As a playworker, you could:

• set up play areas that encourage children to develop through play
•  build strong relationships with children and respond to their needs
•  lead games, supervise children and give out refreshments
•  encourage children to express themselves and talk about their worries
•  build positive relationships with parents, carers and professionals
•  make sure children are safe and secure
•  deal with injuries and emergencies

• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• thinking and reasoning skills
• active listening skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to have a positive attitude towards children and enjoy working with them.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• volunteering
• applying directly

With experience and training, you could:

• work as a playwork development officer for a local authority
•  become a playwork scheme supervisor, senior playworker or manager
•  move into a school as a teaching assistant
•  become self employed and set up an after school club or childcare project