The Salvation Army Doorways to Parenting Program is looking for Playgroup Assistants to join their hard working team. Do you have passion to help others? Are you compassionate and fun? This could be the volunteer role for you.

Purpose of the role

Playgroup Assistant volunteers are essential to the provision of programs at Doorways to Parenting Centre. By providing support and care to children and parents while programs are being conducted allows families the opportunity to participate in available programs.

The volunteer Playgroup Assistant provides support to the Supervised Access Playgroup during Doorways to Parenting and other programs as required. This includes assisting with setting up and packing down the playgroup equipment and preparing food. It also involves supporting the management of handovers between foster carers and DTP staff. This is a rewarding volunteer role were you will be working with children, families, Doorways to Parenting and DTP staff.

Personal Qualities/Attributes Required for Role

• Works well with other volunteers and supervisors and in line with policies
• Respects the views and rights of others and is non-judgemental
• Is optimistic and calm when faced with crisis and difficulties
• Is trustworthy and has integrity in dealing with other volunteers and supervisors
• Is respectful of spiritual beliefs and practices of TSA and others

A typical day will see a Playgroup Assistant performing a range of tasks including;

• Welcoming children and their parent/carer, helping to create a friendly and fun environment
• Setting up rooms and keeping the playroom and wet areas clean and organised
• Encouraging participation in games, craft of free play
• Working alongside other childcare volunteers and taking guidance from the Childcare Advocate or Outreach Worker on duty
• Engaging in debriefing sessions (Mandatory requirement)
• Reporting on any safety concerns

This role could be an opportunity for the right person to gain skills in childcare or to impart their skills to others in a meaningful way to support their community and the work of The Salvation Army.

Hours and expectations;

• One day per week required - Wednesdays 9:30am -1pm
• Integrity Checks (Police Check) will be a requirement of the role
• Current Working with Children Check (WWCC)
• Completion of The Salvation Army Registration form and TSA mission volunteer agreement
• Participate in induction and ongoing training as required by TSA
• Experience working in a similar setting preferable but not essential

Formal qualification in childcare welcomed but not essential

Please express your interest and a member of our team will be in touch soon.