Play Worker

South East/ contract / £14.25 - 20.00 per hour

Play Worker
Entry-Level Opportunity
Various Locations Across Essex

TeacherActive is currently recruiting enthusiastic and motivated Play Workers to support a range of nursery settings across Essex. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to take their first steps into the childcare and early years sector.

Whether you have previous experience working with children or are looking to start a rewarding career in childcare, we are looking for caring, energetic, and reliable individuals who are passionate about supporting children's learning and development.

Interviews will be conducted from our Chelmsford office. For candidates who are unable to attend in person, online interviews can be arranged.

The Role:

• Supporting children aged 0–5 years through play-based learning and activities
• Assisting nursery practitioners with daily routines and activities
• Helping to create a safe, stimulating, and engaging environment for children
• Encouraging children's social, emotional, and physical development
• Supporting indoor and outdoor play sessions
• Building positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues
• Following nursery policies, safeguarding procedures, and health and safety requirements
• Assisting with setting up and tidying away activities throughout the day

Who We're Looking For:

• Individuals who are interested in starting a career within childcare or the nursery industry
• Friendly, approachable, and enthusiastic personalities
• A genuine passion for working with children
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Previous experience working with children is beneficial but not essential
• Candidates considering future Early Years qualifications and career progression are encouraged to apply

Essential Requirements:

• Eligibility to work in the UK
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one
• Satisfactory references covering the last two years
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
• Reliability, professionalism, and a willingness to learn

What We Offer:

• A fantastic entry route into the childcare and early years sector
• Opportunities to gain valuable experience within nursery settings across Essex
• Ongoing support from experienced education and childcare consultants
• Access to training and professional development opportunities
• Potential pathways into Nursery Assistant, Early Years Educator, and Nursery Practitioner roles

In return you can expect to receive:

• A dedicated team of consultants available 24/7 to support you through the easy onboarding process
• Guaranteed Payment Scheme (Terms and Conditions apply)
• CPD Courses and certificates through the My-Progression channel
• Market leading rates of pay
• TeacherActive Referral Scheme – Receive up to £100 when you refer a friend (Terms and Conditions apply)
• All staff are paid on a PAYE basis, ensuring you pay the correct level of Tax and National Insurance, with no hidden admin charges or admin fees

To apply or find out more information, please contact:

EMAIL: [email protected]
CONTACT NUMBER: 01245 335 533

About TeacherActive

TeacherActive is one of the UK’s leading education recruitment agencies, with over 20 years of experience supporting schools and education professionals. We place teachers and support staff into a wide range of temporary, contract and permanent roles, helping candidates find rewarding opportunities that suit their experience, availability and career goals. We pride ourselves on providing an excellent service to both our schools and candidates.

Equal Opportunities Statement

TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business and Employment Agency in providing temporary, contract and permanent job seeking services.

Safeguarding and DBS Compliance

Registration may involve an enhanced DBS check, ID checks and the supply of good professional references, depending on the role. We are committed to safeguarding and compliance across all placements.

Regular external audits have shown repeatedly that our standards are exceptional. We are passionate about finding the right staff for each education environment.