What we do
From 2001-2003 a great deal of work was carried out across the region to develop a regional Centre for Playwork Education and Training. This work was initially sparked by a short term project: Building a Qualified Workforce, which highlighted the need for better communication and networking across the region in order that playwork training and qualifications may be co-ordinated. The project then led to further national funding through the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) and the development of the Foundations 4 the Future project in June 2001.
The South East Centre for Playwork Education and Training will serve as a focal point for playworkers, training providers and development workers who are interested in playwork training and education. The Centre will provide up to date and relevant advice, support and information. It is part of a national network of 9 regions ensuring that national information and developments are disseminated directly to those individuals who are involved in the delivery of play and playwork training, to ensure they have a say in the shaping of playwork education and training.
The Centre will help playworkers by developing accessible affordable playwork training that is endorsed and recognised by Ofsted and the DfES. Playworkers will be able to use playwork training to enhance their learning and skills, for the benefit of children and their own job satisfaction and career progression.
The Centre will help training organisations by promoting the development of endorsed playwork courses and adoption of the SkillsActive Code of Practice, to develop high quality courses.
The Centre will help Early Years Development and Childcare Partnerships by working with them to create a playwork training strategy that responds to the needs of an expanding play workforce.
The funding, over two years, has been to do the groundwork in developing a Regional Centre. This has included identifying a Steering Committee, and drawing up a Regional Development Plan and Business Plan. The project also aims to develop better systems of networking and communication within the region whilst also feeding into a national communication network.
The South East Centre was officially launched in March 2003, with work beginning in April 2003.
In August, 2006, SkillsActive took on the employment of the South East Centre staff as the result of a number of issues. The work program has carried on with minimal interruption, including supporting and developing Re:Play and planning the Spirit of Play event. Existing funding has been ring-fenced for work in the region.
Updated May 2007
