Level 3 Playwork Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You learn on the job as a playworker or senior playworker, building skills while you earn. This level 3 playwork qualification covers the principles, processes, and knowledge behind effective playwork practice. The course typically takes 16 months to complete. You'll need a DBS check, a good level of literacy and numeracy, and a work placement where you can practise as a playworker.
Who this course is for
If you are working as a Playworker or Senior Playworker, then the Level 3 in Playwork will help you to develop and extend your skills and provide an insight into the principles, processes and knowledge of this sector, as part of your career development.
Entry requirements
DBS is essential.
Good level of literacy and numeracy.
Ability to use a computer
Work placement where you can be a playworker.
What you will learn
You'll develop your understanding of play principles and how children use play to learn and grow.
You'll learn how to plan and support play opportunities that meet children's needs.
You'll build skills in observing and assessing children's play behaviour.
You'll understand how to create and maintain safe, inclusive play environments.
You'll learn how to work with colleagues, parents, and carers to support children's wellbeing.
You'll develop knowledge of safeguarding responsibilities in a playwork setting.
You'll extend your ability to reflect on and improve your own playwork practice.
How you will learn
This is a work-based qualification. You build your evidence portfolio through your day-to-day role as a playworker. Assessment includes observation of your practice in the workplace, professional discussion, and written evidence. You'll be assessed against the NVQ standards throughout the 16 months. A assessor will visit you in your workplace to observe and review your progress.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Quest Training South East will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Playworker: leading play sessions in after-school or holiday clubs
Senior Playworker: supervising play sessions and supporting junior staff
Play Development Worker: designing and running community play programmes
Out-of-School Club Supervisor: managing before and after-school childcare
Holiday Playscheme Leader: coordinating activity programmes during school holidays
Children's Centre Worker: supporting families and children in community settings
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Playwork: deepens leadership and management skills for senior roles in play settings.
Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator: recognised in statutory nursery staffing ratios; opens routes into nursery and early years work.
Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies or Play and Playwork: a higher education route for those wanting to move into management, research, or specialist practice.
