Playwork Trainer Profile: 10 Questions
Dianne Larrington - Training Officer
I studied Fashion and worked in retail before becoming disillusioned with the shallowness of it. My Aunty Yvonne showed me an Ad in the back of The Voice Newspaper, placed by Westminster Play association, for Easter temp workers. I answered it and stayed for 3 years! Thanks to Jane Buttergieg, at WPS, I then went on to run my own setting in Westminster.
1. When were you first interested in Childcare?
I was always the keen babysitter in the family and loved being around and responsible for my younger cousins but it was when I had my own child and she started attending an After School Club that I became more aware of the role of the playworker.
2. What is the most important thing about Playwork practice?
That you remember you were once a child too and keep up with your training; there is always something new to learn!
3. If you were Mayor for the day what would you change about play in London?
I would increase the training opportunities for playworkers, so everyone could attain accreditation for what they do but also increase their professionalism. I would also increase the number of adventure playgrounds and allocate extra funding for those already in existence. I’d also sack any playworkers who weren’t good team players or positive influences on children and young people.
4. What is the most enjoyable part of your day?
Apart from getting up in the morning, going to sleep at night or catching up with my loved ones?! I’d say delivering a session and getting the quieter members of the group to contribute, whilst having a good laugh!
5. Who is your Playwork icon?
Bob Hughes but Camilla Batmangeldijh of Kids Company is also a great influence.
6. What advice would you give to someone thinking about going into Playwork?
You won’t get rich off it, so do it because you really enjoy it and want to, as corny as it sounds, make a difference.
7. Is there anything you find frustrating as a trainer?
When students aren't honest about their needs and miss an assignment deadline instead of asking for help; side chatting and lateness!!
8. What is your favourite Playwork topic?
I actually like all of them a lot, on the CPW but I supposed Balancing Risk and safety in Play would be a favourite, as I was previously quite risk averse and find that a lot of adults are terrified of what might happen and don’t want to leave their comfort zones as a result. We then pass this attitude onto children.
9. What qualities do you think a person would need to be a good Playworker?
You need to be kind, caring, have a good sense of humour, be willing to try new things, be a good team player, be creative, approachable, professional and have a positive attitude.
10. What celebrity, do you think, would be a good Playworker?
Boris Johnson but George Clooney would be a good deputy!
[November 2008]
