Pre-Schools / Playgroups
Would you like to work with children from 2–5 years?
Working in a playgroup could be the right choice. There are currently 48 playgroups within the City, providing play and early education for children aged 2–5 years. Playgroups generally operate during school term time for 2 hours per session.
Playgroups provide a valuable resource within local communities and operate from a variety of locations including:
- Community centres
- Church halls
- Scout halls
Children attend playgroups for a variety of reasons including:
- To gain sound educational experiences with the emphasis on learning through play
- To develop skills and confidence prior to starting school
- To have opportunities to socialise and make friends.
Some groups are open in the mornings, others are open both mornings and afternoons. Some groups may also run lunch clubs. Playgroups are managed by a committee or parents and carers of children who attend the group. A playgroup may have two or more playleaders working each session, who are assisted by one or more parents who undertake duties as part of a rota system.
Who can work as a playleader?
A playleader can be male or female, with an age range from school leaver to grandparent.
At present there are no formal qualifications required to work in a playgroup, however playleaders will have a level 3 qualification. Staff are encouraged to hold a level 2 qualification.
What does the job involve?
Playgroups follow national and local curriculum guidance, adhere to the National Care Standards and operate within current and relevant legislation. The playleader plans the session in advance to take into account the curriculum and the individual needs of the children attending.
It is important to remember that all settings now must have an inclusive policy where every child’s needs are met. Activities and equipment are set up in the playroom to offer the children a wide choice of play and learning activities. Activities offered include; painting, sand and water play, puzzles, play dough, construction toys, physical play, story telling, music, home corner and dressing up. Snacks will usually be offered cafeteria style, as and when the children choose. Before the children leave, all the equipment is tidied away.
Playleaders are employed by the playgroup committee and will attend and report to committee meetings as and when required. Playleaders are involved with parents in making a difference for their children and it is an exciting and challenging role.
