Playgroups (also known as Pre-school Playgroups) offer sessional day care (usually between 2 – 4 hours) for children. Most are organised by community or voluntary groups, providing a number of morning and afternoon sessions each week, usually term time only. Some are open all day so that working parents can use them. Many ask parents to help on a rota basis. Pre-school work often offers staff the flexibility to fit your hours in around your other commitments.
Playgroup or Crèche Assistant
You will be working a part of a team, planning and providing stimulating educational and fun activities for the young children in your care.
You will also work closely with parents and carers, discussing and sorting out any issues relating to their child and making sure he or she has the best possible care and activities in an encouraging and safe environment.
You will usually start off in a supervised role as a Playgroup Assistant, working towards a Level 2 qualification in Playwork. You could then move on to a Level 3 qualification which would enable you to work without supervision as a Pre-school or Crèche supervisor. With further experience, you could work as a Preschool, Crèche or Playgroup Leader or become an advanced practitioner.
Playgroup or Crèche Assistant – Qualifications
Vocationally Related Qualifications (awarding Body)
- Level 2 Certificate in Playwork (CACHE)
- Intermediate Certificate in Playwork
- Intermediate Certificate in Developing Skills for Working with Children and Young People (NCFE)
- Intermediate Award in Playwork (NOCN)
Occupational Qualifications
- NVQ Level 2 in Playwork (C&G, CACHE, EDEXCEL)
- Children's Care Learning and Development Level 2
- Children's Care Learning and Development Level 3
