Playworker apprenticeship
Youngstars Childcare Limited · Croydon · posted 13 October 2026
Apply on the official government service →No Apprentice League account needed — we never gate applications.
We are seeking a motivated, enthusiastic and caring individual to join our organisation as a Playworker Apprentice. This role sits within our childcare team and plays an important part in creating a safe, engaging and inclusive environment where children can learn, develop and enjoy play before school, after school and during holiday provision.
The successful candidate will work closely with the premier line manager, school staff and the wider childcare team to support children through a range of structured and child-led play activities.
The role combines practical workplace experience with structured apprenticeship training, enabling the apprentice to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to build a career in childcare and playwork.
Responsibilities of a Playworker Apprentice:
- Support the planning and delivery of fun, engaging and inclusive play activities for children
- Encourage children to participate in a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities
- Promote children's physical, social, emotional and creative development through play
- Help create a safe, welcoming and stimulating play environment
- Build positive relationships with children, parents, carers and colleagues
- Support children's well-being, independence and confidence
- Supervise children during activities, snack times and transitions
- Assist with preparing, setting up and tidying away play equipment and resources
- Follow safeguarding, health and safety and company policies at all times
- Maintain confidentiality and professional standards
- Engage fully with apprenticeship training, mentoring and professional development opportunities
Where it leads
After successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress into roles such as:
- Playworker
- Senior Playworker
- Wraparound Care Leader
- Holiday Club Leader
- Activity Professional
- Sports Coach
The apprentice may also progress onto further training in childcare, sport, education or coaching, including higher-level apprenticeships.
This version is aligned to the Level 2 Playworker apprenticeship standard and is more likely to attract applicants looking to start a career in childcare and wraparound care while maintaining the professional tone and structure of your current vacancies.
About Youngstars Childcare Limited
We are the UK’s leading provider of sport, physical activity and childcare to primary age children and have expert understanding of primary school needs. We operate as an extension of school staff resources, providing invaluable support, and are an approved, trusted resource for the PE and sport premium. We offer career pathways for Activity Professionals, Playworkers, PE teachers, Teaching Assistants and Specialist Teaching Assistants.
Things to consider
Candidates must be aged 18+ due to Ofsted regulations.
The successful applicant must be willing to undertake an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Previous experience working with children in a school, childcare, sports coaching, holiday club or voluntary setting would be desirable but is not essential.
Applicants with a Level 2 qualification in Childcare, Health & Social Care, Sport or a related subject are welcomed but not required.
An understanding of safeguarding, health and safety and child development would be beneficial.
The successful candidate should be enthusiastic, reliable and passionate about creating positive play experiences for children.
Skills they're looking for
Entry requirements
- GCSE English (grade A*-C/4-9) — essential
- GCSE Maths (grade A*-C/4-9) — essential
Where you'll work
- 16 SOUTH END, CROYDON, CR0 1DN
Similar apprenticeships
- Sport Coach apprenticeYoungstars Childcare Limited · London
- PlayWorker apprenticeIn School Sports LTD · Ely
- Playworker ApprenticeEa Coaching LTD · Northampton
- Sport Coach ApprenticeAjk Sports LTD · Aylesbury