Role Summary:

The Play Facilitator will be responsible for planning and delivering engaging, play-based
activities for children using our Anchor SENDfriendly Respite Service. You will provide a safe, stimulating, and supportive environment during respite care sessions, helping children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to explore, learn, and have fun. You will work collaboratively with a dedicated team to ensure each child’s well-being and development is nurtured throughout their time with us.

Key Responsibilities:

• Activity Planning & Delivery:

Develop and implement creative and inclusive play sessions tailored to the individual needs of children.
Adapt activities to ensure all children, regardless of their abilities, are engaged and
stimulated.

• Supervision & Support:

Provide attentive, hands-on supervision during sessions to ensure the safety and
wellbeing of all children.
Monitor children’s engagement and progress, making adjustments to activities as
necessary.

• Team Collaboration:

Work closely with colleagues to ensure a consistent and high-quality service.
Contribute to team meetings and planning sessions to share ideas and best
practices.

• Record Keeping & Communication:

Maintain accurate records of attendance, activities, and any observations related to
the children’s progress.
Communicate effectively with children, parents, and other professionals regarding
children’s needs and achievements.

• Safeguarding:

Uphold all safeguarding policies and procedures, ensuring a secure and respectful
environment for children at all times.

Working Hours:

Morning Shift: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Evening Shift: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Full Day Shift: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Days: Saturdays and Sundays
Person Specification
Essential Criteria:
Experience:
• Proven experience working with children, ideally within a SEND, respite care, or
educational setting.
• A sound understanding of the developmental needs and challenges faced by children
with SEND.
• Excellent ability to build rapport and communicate effectively with children, parents,
and colleagues.
• Demonstrable ability to plan and deliver creative, engaging play activities.
• Strong commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and nurturing environment.
• Willingness and ability to work various shifts on weekends (morning, evening, or full
day).
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to keep accurate records.
Desirable Criteria:
• Relevant qualifications in early years education, childhood studies, or a related field.
• First Aid certification.
• Previous experience in a SEND or respite care environment.
• Familiarity with behaviour management strategies.
• A valid DBS check or willingness to obtain one