East Sussex County Council
Lead Special educational needs and disabilities Play Worker (Children’s Respite Trust)
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JOB DESCRIPTION
Salary: £26,000 per annum pro rata
Contract type: Permanent
Working pattern: Part time
Closing date: 29 July 2026
Interview date: To be confirmed
How to apply: Please visit our website at: http://www.crtcharity.org
Who to contact if you have a query: michelle@crtcharity.org or 01825 817417
Are you passionate about working with children or children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and making a meaningful difference in their lives?
The Children’s Respite Trust is seeking an enthusiastic and caring individual with relevant or similar experience to join our friendly team at our centre in Uckfield.
About the Role
Position: Lead SEN Play Worker
Hours: 14 hours per week (after school and school holidays – flexible and negotiable)
Location: Uckfield – Just off the High Street
Work Location: In person
Schedule: Weekdays only – no weekends or bank holidays
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for candidates who have experience working with children, ideally those with SEND, or in a similar care or educational setting.
You should be:
- A positive, energetic team player who enjoys working with children
- Confident in leading a team and making decisions during a shift
- Skilled at planning and adapting activities to meet diverse needs
- Highly responsible, with a strong understanding of safeguarding and child wellbeing
- A good communicator with strong teamwork and IT skills
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Key Responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate shifts, acting as the senior member of staff on duty
- Support, guide and role model best practice for Play Workers
- Plan and deliver engaging, inclusive activities tailored to children aged 4–18 with SEND
- Ensure safeguarding procedures are fully adhered to at all times
- Oversee and promote health & safety standards, including risk assessments and safe practice
- Take responsibility for the wellbeing, safety and individual needs of each child
- Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues
- Support with record keeping, communication, and general centre organisation
Requirements
- Experience working with children with SEND or in a similar care/education role (essential)
- Previous experience in a senior/support/lead role (desirable)
- Education/childcare/playworker qualification (desirable, but training will be provided)
- GCSE Grade 4 or above in English and Maths preferred (or willingness to work towards equivalent)
- Have a full driving licence
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What we can offer:
- A flexible working pattern
- Employee assistant programme
- Be part of an award-winning team
- Training on the role & continued development
- Regular training developing childcare & activity delivery skills
- DBS, First Aid & Safeguarding Training
- A positive working environment with a multi skilled & enthusiastic team.
- Ability to make a difference – Encouraging children to grow in confidence, develop physical & emotional skills.
- A healthy work life balance.
Important Information
At the Children’s Respite Trust, the safety and wellbeing of the children in our care is our top priority. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
If you are ready to be part of a supportive team and help create a safe, fun, and nurturing environment for children with SEND, we’d love to hear from you!
Important Information
The safety and wellbeing of children in our care is our top priority. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Contact Michelle: michelle@crtcharity.org or 01825 817417
ABOUT US
Additional Information
Your starting salary will be pro rata if the above position is part-time or term-time only.
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