Getting new skills is child's play

Posted on: Monday 17 January 2022
Mya Clare, Torfaen Play Service volunteer

Learning new skills and gaining valuable work experience is child’s play, thanks to Torfaen Play Service.

The team has a number of volunteering opportunities to help run a wide range of play and activity sessions throughout the summer, which can help to support college or university applications, as well as finding a job.  

Mya Clare, 17, from Abersychan, volunteered with Torfaen Play Service last summer and says it helped her secure a place on her chosen social work degree.

Mya said: "At first, I wanted to take on this role as a volunteer just to help with the hours for my university application, but I've found a genuine passion in doing the sessions, especially since I work as a one to one supporting a child with additional needs. 

"Throughout my time volunteering, I have discovered how play plays a crucial part in a child’s development and I've been able to improve my teamwork and communication skills.

"I’ve also developed confidence working with children with disabilities and  have really begun to understand the true nature of Autism and how it can affect children when they play."

The service is now recruiting volunteers to help deliver playschemes across Torfaen, between 1st August to 25th August. 

There are also opportunities to become a 'play buddy' - supporting children with additional needs.

All volunteers receive an accredited qualification in playwork and safeguarding, as well as opportunities to complete first aid and food hygiene qualifications.

The placements can support students studying for the Welsh Baccalaureate, or those applying for college or university courses, as well as providing work experience and references for future job opportunities.

Mya added: "I am moving forward to start a social work degree so that I can reach my dream job of being a social worker for Young Carers and children with disabilities. In my opinion,  Torfaen Play Service is a brilliant place to volunteer and the staff are extremely welcoming and are always here to help if you need it."

As a summer volunteer with Torfaen Play, what other support will I receive?

  • All volunteers will receive an invitation to the Annual Volunteers Awards Ceremony where we celebrate their success
  • Daily expenses for food and travel
  • Volunteers will be consulted regularly, to hear and act upon their views and opinions to shape the future of the Play Service.

Torfaen Executive Member for Children, Families and Communities, Cllr Fiona Cross said: "Volunteering is a great opportunity for people of all ages to develop new skills and experiences and it allows you to give something back to the community. The Torfaen Play summer volunteering project is an amazing opportunity and it also champions every child’s right to play freely and safely in their community."

I’m interested in volunteering; how do I sign up?  

Volunteering with Torfaen Play Service is open to all ages and you can apply online on the council's website, just search 'Play Service Volunteers'.

The deadline for applications is 30th April 2022.

All participants are required to attend an informal interview and have a DBS. For further information about volunteering, email Andrea at andrea.sysum@torfaen.gov.uk

Last Modified: 26/04/2023 Back to top