The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Playwork in Child Development offers participants an invaluable opportunity to deepen their understanding of play’s crucial role in a child’s growth and learning. This specialised diploma equips participants with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to support and enhance children’s development through play in a variety of settings.
Play is widely recognised as a fundamental element in childhood development, contributing not only to physical growth but also to emotional, social, and cognitive skills. The OSHAA diploma emphasises the importance of creating safe, inclusive, and stimulating environments where children can explore and learn through play. Participants gain insight into developmental stages and how playwork professionals can tailor activities to support individual needs and abilities.
The OSHAA Professional Diploma in Playwork in Child Development is ideal for those working or aspiring to work in childcare, early years education, youth work, or community support roles. It provides participants with a recognised qualification that can enhance career prospects and professional credibility within the childcare sector.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Playwork in Child Development offers a well-rounded, practical, and professional pathway for individuals dedicated to supporting children’s growth through meaningful play experiences. It empowers participants to make a positive difference in children’s lives, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this rewarding field.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Playwork in Child Development
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Playwork and Its Importance in Child Development (3 hours)
- Understand the fundamental principles of playwork
- Recognise the significance of play in child development
- Identify the role of playworkers in supporting children’s growth
Child Development Theories and Stages (4 hours)
- Explain key child development theories relevant to playwork
- Describe developmental stages from infancy through adolescence
- Apply theoretical knowledge to support age-appropriate play activities
The Role of Play in Physical, Emotional, and Social Development (3 hours)
- Analyse how play contributes to children’s physical growth
- Understand the impact of play on emotional wellbeing
- Evaluate the social benefits of play in child development
Designing and Facilitating Play Activities (4 hours)
- Develop skills to plan engaging and developmentally appropriate play activities
- Facilitate play that encourages creativity and problem-solving
- Adapt play sessions to meet diverse needs and interests
Communication Skills for Playworkers (5 hours)
- Demonstrate effective communication techniques with children
- Build positive relationships through active listening and empathy
- Communicate professionally with parents, carers, and colleagues
Inclusive Play and Supporting Diverse Needs (5 hours)
- Identify barriers to inclusive play and strategies to overcome them
- Support children with diverse abilities and backgrounds in play settings
- Promote equality and respect within play environments
Risk Assessment and Child Safety in Play Environments (4 hours)
- Conduct thorough risk assessments for play areas and activities
- Implement safety measures to minimise hazards without restricting play
- Understand legal and ethical responsibilities related to child safety
Observation and Assessment of Play Behaviour (2 hours)
- Observe and record children’s play behaviours accurately
- Assess developmental progress through play observation
- Use assessment findings to inform play planning and support
Here are the course benefits for the OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Playwork in Child Development:
- Gain a thorough understanding of the vital role play has in child development across multiple domains.
- Develop practical skills to design, facilitate, and evaluate play activities that promote children’s growth and learning.
- Learn effective communication strategies to build positive relationships with children, parents, and professionals.
- Acquire knowledge of inclusive play practices to support children with diverse needs and backgrounds.
- Enhance ability to conduct risk assessments and maintain safe play environments without limiting creativity.
- Build confidence in observing and assessing play behaviours to better support individual development.
- Earn a recognised professional diploma from OSHAA, boosting your credentials in childcare and playwork.
- Improve career prospects in early years education, childcare, youth work, and community services.
- Benefit from a flexible 30-hour course format suited to balancing professional and personal commitments.
- Empower yourself to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives by fostering safe, enriching play experiences.
- Participants working in childcare, early years education, or youth work seeking to enhance their playwork skills.
- Playworkers and support staff aiming to deepen their understanding of child development through play.
- Community workers and volunteers involved in children’s programmes and recreational activities.
- Professionals responsible for creating safe and inclusive play environments.
- Those aspiring to build a career in child development, playwork, or related sectors.
- Participants interested in improving communication and observational skills with children.
- Anyone committed to supporting children’s growth, wellbeing, and learning through meaningful play experiences.
