Casual SEND Playworker

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• Job_Description_-_Play_workers

Please apply online via the link provided.

Please note, we do not accept CVs submitted without a fully completed online application form.

We’re looking for enthusiastic and caring individuals to join our team in supporting SEND children and young people aged 5–16 who attend the Club Hub. These sessions are funded through a range of programmes including the Department for Education’s HAF Programme, the Hardship Alliance for extended SEND provision, and Short Breaks.

We deliver high-quality care through fun and engaging activities for children and young people with SEND after school, during school holidays, and one Saturday a month. As a Playworker, your main role will be to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can thrive.

We’re looking for people who:

• Have experience or a strong passion for working with children and young people with a range of disabilities and complex needs.
• Are keen to learn about different communication styles and behavioural needs.
• Can work effectively under pressure in a busy, diverse and demanding work environment.
• Ability to have fun, engage children and young people to access a range of activities, whilst keeping them safe.
• Can be positive role models, helping children develop social and independent living skills.
• Be committed to Safeguarding.

What we offer: As part of our team, you’ll have the chance to make a real difference in children’s lives. We provide a full induction and training programme, with ongoing support and supervision.

About the role: As a Playworker, you’ll help children and young people stay safe and reach their potential by:

• Supporting communication using tools such as Makaton, PECS, and assistive technology.
• Facilitating access to a wide range of activities including arts and crafts, sensory play, sports, games, water play, and more.
• Promoting independence in life skills such as mealtimes, personal care, and safety.
• Encouraging the development of social skills and helping children build positive relationships.

Flexible Hours: This role offers flexible working hours that can fit around your other commitments.

Interested? For more information, please contact:
Sophie Hookway sophie.hookway@wokingham.gov.uk

Closing date: 22nd October 2025

Interview date: TBC on successful application

Please be aware that we will be reviewing the applications we receive on a regular basis, and we reserve the right to close the advert early if suitable candidates are identified.

If your application is shortlisted for an interview, you will be required to provide proof of your right to work in the UK at that stage. Additionally, successful candidates must present proof upon receiving a job offer.

Please note that all offers are conditional and subject to the satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.

Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we regret that we are unable to respond to every applicant individually.

If you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the application closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.

We appreciate your interest in joining Wokingham Borough Council and thank you for taking the time to apply.

Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.