Volunteer Play Assistant for autistic children - Focus Surrey

As a play assistant you will work 1:1 or 2:1 with two children (one in the morning and one in the afternoon) on specific targets and create learning opportunities through play and fun in a natural environment setting. Play assistants will be paired with a specific child based on experience and qualifications. The age range is 3 to 16 years.

About the Organisation

Focus Surrey

What you will be doing

As a play assistant you will work 1:1 or 2:1 with two children (one in the morning and one in the afternoon) on specific targets and create learning opportunities through play and fun in a natural environment setting. Play assistants will be paired with a specific child based on experience and qualifications. The age range is 3 to 16 years.

Calling all people with an interest in working with children with autism, including those in the teaching and care professions, plus students in psychology and therapy fields, this is a career-enhancing opportunity for you.

We are looking for volunteers to help support children with autism in a fun, friendly and child-centred environment. You need to be energetic, reliable and committed, as you will be active and on your feet regularly with your allocated child. Ideally you will have some experience of working with children and be interested in developing your understanding of children with disabilities.

You will receive two full days of training to help children practise social and early years’ skills, in line with the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based approach. The club is led by a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). The initial training comprises one full day, then a further day of training on one of the Saturdays the children do not attend, in order for you to develop your understanding of autism, ABA and the skills required for the position.
 
You can read testimonials from previous volunteers here: https://www.focus-surrey.com/testimonials
 
We welcome neurodiverse volunteers and can make reasonable adjustments if you require any additional support to volunteer.
 
Age Range: We can accept applications for under 18s, including from 16+.

What's in it for you?

Calling all people with an interest in working with children with autism, including those in the teaching and care professions, plus students in psychology and therapy fields, this is a career-enhancing opportunity for you.  Skills you will gain: -Knowledge of autism and social communication difficulties -Practical application of an evidence-based teaching method -Valuable experience working with children with disabilities -Teamwork skills and working with professionals

What skills will you need?

Activities
Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring,Caring,Youth Work,General & Helping
 
Skills & Attributes
Working part of Team, Motivator, Communication Skills, Helpful & Caring
 
Skills Description
We are looking for volunteers to help support children with autism in a fun, friendly and child-centred environment. You need to be energetic, reliable and committed, as you will be active and on your feet regularly with your allocated child. Ideally you will have some experience of working with children and be interested in developing your understanding of children with disabilities.

What's the time commitment and where? 

Time Commitment

The club will run for on Saturdays from 9am to 4pm each day. There are training days too.

 

Role Address

The venue is in Morden, accessible by bus routes 80, 93 and 154. It is a 15-minute walk from Morden Station, or a 5-minute walk from Morden South station.

How can I apply?

Please complete the form below and we will put you in contact with the organisation.   It’s helpful if you can tell us a little about yourself and why you’re interested in this role in the message box below. 

By completing this form you agree for us to pass on your contact details to the organisation.

 

 

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