Playgroup and Cylch Meithrin

Playgroups and Cylchoedd Meithrin provide quality play, learning and development experiences for children aged two to four years old. You will find more information about what they do and advice on how to find a job in playgroups on this page.

What are Playgroups/ Cylchoedd Meithrin?

Playgroups/ Cylchoedd Meithrin are also referred to as ‘Sessional Care’. Each session is usually provided for up to four hours a day and children who attend are supported to learn through play and active involvement.

Playgroups can be run privately or by a committee of local parents or carers. The sessions are often held in community centres, schools or nurseries.  They can take place during term time only, or during the school holidays and can provide support services around local primary schools.

Providers aim to create a safe and engaging environment where children can learn through play and inclusive activities. Children can develop their social skills through interaction with other children.

Playgroups/ Cylchoedd Meithrin in Wales are required to meet the required standards set out and enforced by Care Inspectorate Wales.

Find jobs in Playgroups/ Cylchoedd Meithrin

If you’re ready to find your next role straight away, you can start right here by browsing the job vacancies listed on our website.

• Browse and apply for playgroup jobs via the WeCare Wales Jobs portal.
• Browse and apply for cylchoedd meithrin jobs via Mudiad Meithrin’s website.
• View the website and contact details of early years employers in our jobs database.

Working in playgroups or Cylchoedd Meithrin is a great option for anyone who is enthusiastic about children’s development through playing and learning. We made a video to highlight how important these workers are in helping children to reach their potential.

• Watch the video – “We work with Children…”

Working in early years can be a long and rewarding career. You will find job roles from sessional day care assistant practitioner, to practitioner and all the way up to manager in this field. Jane gives us some great insight about her 33-year career in early years, where she emphasises how special and worthwhile it feels. You can watch Jane’s video here.

• See the Case Study – Jane, CEO at Early Years Wales

If you’re looking to take your first step into working in early years, The Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY) has a great guide on how to get started. You can read it on the PACEY website.

• The First Steps to a Job in Child Care (PACEY Website)

Early Years Wales provide support and guidance on their website to members and individuals who are interested in, employed or volunteer in the childcare sector.

• Updates on all areas of Early Years in Wales.

Mudiad Meithrin also offer training support on their website.

• Accredited Early Years courses to work with young children.