Playground Manager

Playground Manager
Location: Hayward Adventure Playground, 15 Market Road, Upper Holloway N7 9PL
Organisation: Kids Adventure Playgrounds
Working Hours: 36 variable hours per week and will include 1 working weekend in 4 during term time.
Salary: £35,000 per annum
Essential criteria: Level 3 qualification or above and at least 2 years’ experience of working in a playground setting / early years setting or other suitable experience
Hayward Playground is an accessible and inclusive recreational facility in the heart of the city, designed to empower children and young people aged 6 to 25. Established in 1974, we provide a wide range of play opportunities and tailored support to ensure all children, including those with disabilities, can explore, play, and grow in an environment that promotes inclusivity and well-being.
We offer after-school clubs, weekend programs, youth activities, and holiday play schemes, creating a space where every young person feels valued and supported.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Playground Manager to oversee the daily operations of Hayward
Playground. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team to ensure the safe,
inclusive, and engaging management of the playground, ensuring that the environment
meets the diverse needs of the children and young people we serve.
Key Responsibilities
* Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and manage both permanent and sessional staff, ensuring the team is well-equipped with the skills and resources necessary to provide high-quality, inclusive play experiences.
* Health and Safety Management: Oversee all safety protocols, ensuring that the playground operates in compliance with all relevant regulations and that staff are adequately trained in health and safety measures.
* Safeguarding: Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensuring safeguarding policies are strictly followed and that the welfare of children is the top priority.
* Facility Management: Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of playground equipment and facilities, ensuring the space remains safe, clean, and fully functional.
* Budget Oversight: Manage the playground's budget, ensuring that financial resources are effectively allocated and that operational goals are met within the established financial framework.
* Program Development: Collaborate with staff to design and implement a variety of inclusive activities and programs that cater to the diverse needs and interests of the children and young people attending the playground.
* Administrative Duties: Manage necessary documentation, including reports, staff schedules, and communications with local authorities and partner agencies.
Key Qualifications
* Experience in Play or Childcare Management: Demonstrated experience in managing recreational or childcare settings, with a strong understanding of play's role in child development.
* Experience Working with Disabled Children: Previous experience supporting disabled children and young people, with a proven ability to create a positive, ninclusive environment.
* Safeguarding Expertise: Experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), with comprehensive knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures.
* Team Management: Strong leadership skills, with experience in recruiting, supervising, and developing staff.
* Organisational Skills: Proficient in managing multiple responsibilities, including budgeting, reporting, and operational planning.
* IT Proficiency: Competency in Microsoft Office and database management formadministrative tasks.
* Collaboration and Partnership: Experience working with external stakeholders, such as local authorities and community organisations, to support children’s needs.
* Commitment to Inclusion: A strong belief in equality and anti-discriminatory practices, ensuring that the playground is welcoming and accessible to all children.
Why Work with Us
Joining Hayward Playground offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of children and young people. You will contribute to creating an inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment where every child can thrive