Play Sessions - Summer 2008

What is a play session?
It’s where children join in fun and exciting activities in a safe and stimulating environment. All these sessions are delivered by a team of four or five Playworkers. A varied programme of play activities is planned. This is an ideal opportunity for children to play safely in an indoor and outdoor environment.

What can you do at the play sessions?
The children are able to play freely and have choices, which expand their social skills, test their emotional, physical and creative wellbeing, but with the safety and security of experienced Playworkers at hand.  The children can join in with games, art and crafts, consultations, parachute play, earthball pretend play, singing and dancing.

Where are the play sessions?
We deliver play sessions across the city. Term-time sessions operate in a variety of settings including sport centres and community centres.  During Easter and summer holidays, many of the sessions may operate in parks and open green spaces.

When do the play sessions run?
Term-time sessions operate after school and at weekends. Holiday sessions run in the early afternoon and early evening. To download a copy of the Summer 2008 programme for your area please follow the link at the bottom of the page.

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Who can attend a play session?
All children aged between 5 and 12 years old can attend the session. The play sessions are inclusive.  This means that we value, promote and celebrate equal opportunities and diversity. We also work closely with schools with schools to encourage children with disabilities to take part.

Do I have to pay?
No - all the play sessions are free.

How does my child join?
Once you decide which session is the most suitable, you can attend the session. On your first visit you will be asked to complete a membership form. Or you can download a form by following the link at the bottom of the page.

What is the code of conduct for children?
When you complete the membership form, children and parents are asked to agree to the behaviour code of conduct. Children who attend the session establish ground rules in partnership with Playworkers

Are the Playworkers qualified?
The Play Service seeks to comply with the Ofsted National Standards for out of school care. This means that staff who are supervisors at sessions hold a Level 3 qualification in Playwork. At least half of our staff holds a Level 2 qualification in Playwork. All other staff has induction training which includes Take 5 for Play. All our workshops and courses are available to the general public.

How can I volunteer?
Yes - volunteers enhance and increase the opportunities for positive play for children during their free time. We welcome applications from interested people who would like to join us. This is subject to CRB checks.

What standards do we work towards?
Best Play 2000

• The provision extends the choice and control that the children have over their play, the freedom they enjoy and the satisfaction they gain from it.
• The provision extends the child’s need to test boundaries and respond positively to that need.
• The provision manages the balance between the need to offer risk and the need to keep the children safe from harm.
• The provision maximises the range of play opportunities.
• The provision fosters independence and self esteem.
• The provision fosters the children’s respect for others and offers opportunities for social interaction.
• The provision fosters the child’s well being, healthy growth and development, knowledge and understanding, creativity and capacity to learn.