In a prelude to the launch of the UK Strategy for Playwork Education and Training, which is due to be published in the next few weeks, Paul Bonel, SkillsActive's director of playwork, told Nursery World that the sector needs a workforce qualified to level 4 and degree level. But, he said, there are not enough opportunities for playworkers to access funding and learning opportunities across the country.
'The needs in our sector are around level 3 qualifications and beyond for the post-25 age group. But there is a big issue around getting funding at level 3, because funding from the Learning and Skills Council is often skewed towards level 2 and the younger age group,' said Mr Bonel.
'We have the playwork sector-endorsed foundation degree, which gives playworkers the opportunity to gain a level 5 qualification while carrying out their playwork job, with a clear route to an Honours degree. But we need to increase the number of universities that offer the course so more people can study for it.'
The Foundation Degree in Playwork is currently on offer at Leeds Metropolitan University and the University of Hertfordshire. Three more universities - Greenwich, Brighton and East London - are in the process of recruiting students, and Kingston University, Warwick and City and Islington colleges are interested in offering the course.
The occupational standards at level 4 in playwork were launched last month.
Mr Bonel said he is 'hopeful' that an awarding body will make them into a qualification.
The publication of the UK strategy for playwork and training, known as Quality Training, Quality Play 2005-2010, which was originally planned for October 2005, sets out an action plan to raise the status of playwork as a profession and improve the quality and range of play opportunities for children and young people.