The Playworker Level 2 Apprenticeship is a structured training program designed to develop skills and knowledge in providing play opportunities for children and young people. Most Playworkers are employed in the voluntary or public sector, while others work in the private sector. Playworkers may work in local community settings, such as Before and After School Clubs, Adventure Playgrounds and Mobile Play Provision, for example a Playbus. They may also offer play sessions in Women’s Refuges, Prisons and Hospitals, as well as play ranger sessions in open spaces such as parks and woodlands. Playschemes are also offered in sport and leisure centres where Playworkers may be employed.
Playwork jobs roles vary according to the type of service being provided and children being supported. Typical employers include local councils and government, charities and voluntary management committees, private companies offering After School/Breakfast/Holiday clubs and private day care nurseries.
Course requirements
- Apprentices without level 1 English and maths will need to achieve this level and apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to take the tests for this level prior to taking the end-point assessment.
- A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
Support children and young people’s freely chosen, self-directed play by enhancing the play using appropriate intervention style. Foster children and young people’s development in line with their culture, age and stage of development.
Build playful relationships with children, recognising professional boundaries.
Provide a diverse, inclusive and accessible setting for all children and young people, taking into consideration any additional requirements they may have.
Observe children and young people playing, including how they interact with different environments, other children and young people and staff. Keep reflective records to inform future planning.
Reflect individually and as part of a team to improve Playwork practice.
Advocate for all children and young people’s right to play when liaising with parents, carer givers, colleagues, local residents and other professionals.
Facilitate the creation of inspiring play spaces with opportunities to include a range of loose parts which foster and stimulate children and young people’s imagination, and build an understanding of sustainable attitudes.
Contribute to the process of risk-benefit assessment in children and young people’s play.
Choose intervention styles that support children and young people, responding to their behaviour and extending their play.
Build and maintain a professional relationship with parents and caregivers in relation to their children’s experiences in the Playwork setting/local community.
Assessment Methods
This is a knowledge based course with practical aspects that will need to be demonstrated.
End-Point Assessment
- Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
- Knowledge test
Progression Routes
Upon the successful completion of this apprenticeship, why not continue to study on one of these courses:
- Early Years Educator (level 3)
- Teaching Assistant Supporting Teaching & Learning (level 3)
- Early Years Lead Practitioner (level 5)
