Careers in childcare
Would you like to work with children?
There are lots of reasons why you might choose this type of career:
- You can make a real difference to children’s lives and their outcomes
- Everyday is different
- The sector is constantly evolving, and you can be part of its exciting developments
- There are opportunities to continually develop as a professional
- It can be flexible, part time, full time or term time only
Working in early years and childcare is unique, always varied and very rewarding
There are many career pathways and training and qualification routes.
What roles could I do?
- Voluntary opportunities
- Assistants
- Early Years/Childcare Practitioners
- Lead Practitioners
- Deputy Manager
- Manager
- Working with children with special educational needs
Who is it for?
- Considering career options when leaving school
- Returning to work
- Want a career change
Where could I work?
- Nursery in the private, voluntary or independent sector
- Preschool/playgroup
- Childminder – Self-employed: registered with Ofsted or as part of a childminding agency
- Wraparound provision – Before and affter school
- Nursery provision in schools
What skills and qualities should I have to work in childcare?
Some of the skills you would need are:
- Good communication skills
- Resourceful
- Good level of written and spoken English
- Patient and caring
- Non bias and inclusive approach
- Flexible and adaptable
- Creative
- Committed and motivated
- Knowledge of child development
- Fun!
- Team player