My day could be anything from teaching street dance or graffiti to making slime or fires to roast marshmallows. I organise trips for the older children during the holidays, which is anything from stand-up paddle boarding, paint ball to beaches trips. We also provide short breaks for children with complex needs which I help organise activities for. My main job is to make sure the children are having fun!
How did you get your job?
When I left college I didn’t know what I wanted to do with myself. I applied for a job at Centre Point and have never looked back. I have been lucky enough to become a teacher of dance through a course run by the International Dance Teachers Association. I have also done my award in Education and Training and my award in assessing and I also teach various playwork courses on the island.
What motivates you in this role?
I love my job and I’m very passionate about it. What motivates me the most is seeing the children engaging and enjoying the time they spend with us. The look on a child’s face when they climb a tree for the first time or get to meet Batman is something very special.
Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role?
In my role I am always learning and I will always be gaining new skills. Currently I am studying a course on nutrition to be able to provide a better knowledge to the children about healthy eating.
What are the three most important skills required for your role?
Passion – If you are passionate about the job you do then this can really benefit the children.
Knowledge – We provide play opportunities and it is important
to understand the importance of play and how this can help children develop and learn through play. Approachable – if you are approachable the children will see you as friendly and welcoming.
What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession?
We provide childcare for children from birth all the way through. We have two nurseries, before and after school care, holiday club, short breaks, dance club and graffiti club. So if you have an interest in working with children, get yourself onto a childcare course and give us a call about possibly doing some volunteering to see what suits you best.
FUN FACT
In 2015 I started up my own street dance school called Street Angels. I am also a big Leeds United fan, in Bielsa we trust, marching on together!
