Service Manager

Service Manager

Location: Hayward Adventure Playground, 15 Market Road, Upper Holloway N7 9PL

Organisation: Kids Adventure Playgrounds

Working Hours: 36 variable hours per week and will include 1 working weekend in 4 during term time.

Salary: £35,000 per annum

Essential criteria: Level 3 qualification or above and at least 2 years experience of working in a playground setting / early years setting or other suitable experience

Are you passionate about creating enriching, inclusive experiences for children? Join us at Hayward Adventure Playground and help shape a vibrant, safe, and welcoming space where every child can grow, play, and thrive.

About Hayward Adventure Playground

Located in the heart of the city, Hayward Playground is a dynamic and inclusive recreational space for children and young people ages 6 to 25. Established in 1974, we’ve built a legacy of empowering youth through a variety of programs—from after-school clubs and holiday play schemes to weekend youth activities. Our mission is to create a supportive environment that fosters growth, exploration, and joy for all children, including those with disabilities.

About the Role: Service Manager

We are searching for an inspiring and dedicated Service Manager to lead our team and oversee daily operations at Hayward Playground. You’ll play a key role in crafting an environment where young people can feel valued, safe, and included. This is an opportunity to impact lives, leading a team that delivers creative, safe, and diverse play opportunities for children and youth across the city.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and Inspire: Recruit, train, and support a passionate team, ensuring everyone has the skills and resources to create memorable, high-quality play experiences.
• Champion Safety: As the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), implement rigorous safeguarding and safety protocols, keeping the welfare of our children at the heart of all activities.
• Oversee Facilities: Ensure playground equipment and facilities are safe, clean, and ready for fun! Manage routine maintenance and facility improvements to keep the space thriving.
• Budget and Resource Management: Oversee financial resources, ensuring budget targets are met while delivering a variety of engaging programs.
• Program Development: Collaborate with your team to design inclusive programs that cater to diverse interests, making every young visitor feel welcome.
• Build Partnerships: Work with local authorities and community partners to extend our impact, fostering a playground that is a true community asset.

About You

• Experienced Leader: You bring at least 2 years’ experience in a childcare or playground management setting and hold a Level 3 qualification or higher.
• Inclusive Mindset: Committed to creating a welcoming space for all children, including those with disabilities, through equal opportunity and anti-discriminatory practices.
• Safeguarding Champion: Experienced as a DSL with a comprehensive understanding of safeguarding policies, ensuring the highest standard of child welfare.
• Organised and Proactive: Skilled in multitasking, with experience in budgeting, reporting, and coordinating multiple activities in a fast-paced environment.
• Tech Savvy: Competent in using Microsoft Office and other databases for efficient administrative management.
• Community-Oriented: Experience working with external partners to enhance support for the children and youth we serve.

Why Join Us?

Working at Hayward Playground means being part of a community where your work directly supports the growth, joy, and well-being of young people. You’ll lead a team that brings creativity and purpose into every day, helping build a space where every child feels they belong.

Take the next step in your career by making a difference at Hayward Playground!