- sensitivity and understanding
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- excellent verbal communication skills
- customer service skills
- thinking and reasoning skills
- the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Your day-to-day work may include:
- providing and setting up play areas, materials and equipment
- giving out refreshments
- talking to children about their concerns or worries
- dealing with injuries and emergencies
- building relationships with parents, carers, and professionals
- keeping records and looking after petty cash
You may need to wear a uniform.
You could work in the community or at a school.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.
With experience and training, you could work for a local authority as a playwork development officer, supervisor or become a manager, or move into a school as a teaching assistant.
You could also be self-employed and set up your own after-school club or childcare project.
You'll find more details on working in childcare from the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years.
