Vacancy for Play Practitioner (Wrap-Around Care Provision) - to start as soon as possible

Salary: £4,884 - £4961 Actual Salary per year (£12.69 - £12.89 per hour FTE) Meridian Trust Grade 3, Points 2 - 3

This is a permanent, term-time only post 

Hours of work: 8 hours and 50 minutes per week

Working pattern: Wednesday to Friday 3.30 - 6pm (Stay & Play Club) plus Friday 7.30 to 8.50am (Breakfast Club) 

Responsible to Wrap-Around Care Manager/Headteacher

We are looking for an energetic and dedicated Play Practitioner to support our fantastic wrap-around care provision at The Lantern Community Primary School - the position is available from Wednesday to Friday in our after-school 'stay and play' club from 3.30 - 6pm with an additional session in our breakfast club on Friday mornings from 7.50am to 8.30am.  You will be part of a wonderful team providing care, play opportunities and activities for the children aged from 4 to 11 years.  You may be expected to help with the preparation of refreshments for the children.  The development of positive working relationships with other wrap-around staff, school staff, parents/carers will be an essential aspect of the role, as will a secure knowledge of safeguarding and health and safety.  First aid training will be a requirement.   You will work under the direction of the Wrap-Around Care Manager to maintain a safe and enjoyable learning environment.

The opportunity

• To join a friendly, supportive team providing high-quality appropriate play activities
• To provide a safe, caring and inclusive setting for our children
• To maintain a stimulating and enjoyable learning environment
• To supervise the children and be responsible for their physical, emotional, social and intellectual well-being

The ideal candidate

• Has a good educational background with GCSE or equivalent in English Language
• Can form positive and caring relationships with children which motivates them to learn, grow and be confident.
• The ability to work collaboratively with parents, carers, colleagues and third parties

About Meridian Trust 

Meridian Trust is a values-led organisation formed in 2011 that has risen to be one of the highest-performing academy trusts in the country. The Trust is founded on its commitment to a high-quality educational provision for all at the heart of local communities. Meridian currently operates primary, secondary and special schools across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.

Meridian Trust offers a wealth of fantastic benefits for teaching and support staff which are highlighted below but are not limited to - 

• Apprenticeship and CPD opportunities which allow you to gain specialist knowledge in a role you are passionate about developing in
• Opportunity to jump start your career in teaching through our dedicated Initial Teacher Training Team (ITT)
• Support for mental health and wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme and other resources
• Cycle to work scheme
• Defined benefit local government or Teacher’s pension scheme
• Healthcare benefits including free eye test vouchers and flu vaccinations
• Free on-site parking
• Discounts on a wide range of benefits from everyday essentials to holidays         

To explore our full range of benefits, please visit https://www.meridiantrust.co.uk/jobs-and-training/benefits/. 

For more information about the role please download the Applicant Information Pack below.

Closing date for applications: Monday 5th January 2026 by 9am

Interviews will be held on: Week beginning 5th January 2026

The Trust is committed to diversity and inclusion and equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to pre-employment checks, including an enhanced check with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), as well as online searches.