Playleaders now need an NVQ playwork qualification (which can take up to a year to achieve), rather than just an Induction level course which has been acceptable before.
Playschemes typically run for a week at Easter and four weeks of the summer and are usually staffed by students, so it seems crazy that they should now need the same qualifications as playworkers who are in post all year.
SkillActive (the Sector Skills Council for Active Leisure and Learning), are working with the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF), to try to find a realistic solution.
The reality is however, that with less qualified staff available, there will be less playscheme places available and parents will be faced with the prospect of finding alternative & potentially more expensive childcare solutions during the long holiday periods, or taking more annual leave so that they can look after their children themselves.
Additionally, children face missing out on excellent play experiences provided in safe environments and students (typically teaching and childcare students), could find themselves missing out on wages in their long vacations, but also vital experience of working with youngsters.
It is to be hoped that some solution can be found so that all the groups involved can continue to benefit from the real opportunities and experiences that holiday playschemes offer. In the meantime, book your playscheme places as soon as possible so that your children don't miss out.
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