Play Development Lead

JOB PURPOSE:

• To champion and embed a play-based approach across the Child Friendly Neighbourhood programme, ensuring play supports wellbeing, belonging, creativity and community connection.
• To lead quality, inclusive and child-led play opportunities for primary-aged children and families across term‑time, holiday and community provision.
• To support colleagues across youth, creative and wider Springfield Project provision to incorporate playful, relationship‑based approaches within delivery.
• To lead high‑quality, inclusive and child/youth‑led play opportunities for children and young people aged 5–18 and families across term‑time, holiday and community provision.
• To support colleagues across children’s, youth, creative and community provision to incorporate playful, relationship‑based approaches within delivery.
• To contribute to the development of Sparkhill as a playful, welcoming and child‑friendly neighbourhood aligned to the CFN vision and Springfield Project values.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

PROGRAMME DEVELOPMENT

• Lead the development and delivery of a neighbourhood-wide play offer, including playschemes, Playstreets, out‑door play and enrichment activities
• Facilitate self-directed play, enabling children and young people to explore their own interests, ideas and relationships
• Promote understanding of the importance of play for wellbeing, belonging and community connection
• Support the development of playful environments, events and opportunities across Sparkhill
• Continuously review and improve provision based on participation, feedback and learning.

PARTICIPATION AND COMMUNITY

• Engagement Ensure the voices and experiences of children, young people and families shape provision, environments and activities
• Build positive relationships with children, young people, families and community partners
• Encourage participation, co-production and family involvement in activities and neighbourhood initiatives
• Promote play as an important part of healthy communities, relationships and belonging

LEADERSHIP & TEAM WORKING

• Lead and support a team of sessional playworkers and volunteers
• Model and champion high-quality play work practice across the wider CFN programme
• Support staff development through mentoring, supervision and reflective practice
• Contribute to a positive team culture and organisational values

SAFEGUARDING & INCLUSION

• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) for the service area
• Ensure safeguarding procedures are followed at all times
• Promote the safety, wellbeing and protection of all children
• Ensure all provision, including playschemes, events, outreach work and groups, are delivered safely
• Create an inclusive environment where diversity is respected and celebrated
• Challenge discriminatory behaviour appropriately

QUALITY, MONITORING & EVALUATION

• Maintain accurate records in line with data protection and confidentiality requirements
• Contribute to monitoring, evaluation and reporting processes
• Support service reviews and continuous improvement

PARTNERSHIPS & STRATEGIC CONTRIBUTION

• Work with partners to enhance opportunities for children and families
• Contribute to the ongoing development of the Child Friendly Neighbourhood programme
• Participate in meetings, including Steering Group where required

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Follow organisational policies and procedures
• Work flexibly to meet the needs of the service, including evenings and up to 2 Saturdays per month
• Participate in supervision, appraisal and training
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role

#J-18808-Ljbffr…