Early Years and Childcare

What can I do in Early Years and Childcare?

In Early Years and Childcare there are opportunities for everyone, whether you want to work full-time or part-time as an assistant or in a more managerial position. It’s impossible to define all the roles available as there is so much variety but here are some ideas.

You could be a nursery assistant or a playworker, working with children all day. Not only do you get to enjoy playing and having fun with children but you are also helping them to develop and learn. They will use some of the skills they learn with you, such as how to get on with other children, for the rest of their lives.

If you are interested in a more managerial job you may end up running your own nursery; being your own boss, taking responsibility for staff and budgets and building relationships with parents.

Jobs in Early Years and Childcare can be flexible and fit around family life. You could become a childminder, looking after children in your own home. You can also work with children of different ages. Most jobs are with younger children aged 0-5 but you could also work with older children, for example, in after school clubs running activities such as sports or homework support.

The new role of an Early Years Professional combines both working directly with children and leading and supporting other staff to demonstrate excellent practice. Early Years Professionals can work with children aged 0-5 years in nurseries, children’s centres, and pre-schools or as childminders.

The main thing you need is passion, enthusiasm and more than anything to love working with children.

Working in Early Years—it’s not just child's play!

There’s never been a better time to work in Early Years and Childcare. It’s an expanding and dynamic sector and there is an increasing demand for staff at all levels.

There are plenty of opportunities to gain training and qualifications. Over the next few years there will be more Early Years and Childcare provision, which will provide more opportunities for people who want to work with young children.

It’s also an important career, as those who work in it play an incredibly valuable role in shaping the lives of future generations. It’s a career you can be proud of.

It’s also fun working with children every day and watching them develop and learn. Most people who work in the sector love their jobs and look forward to going to work every day.

Are you considering a career in childcare?

Male or female, you may be a school leaver, returning to work, looking ahead to a change of career, or currently unemployed.

Whether you want to work full-time, part-time, or just for a few hours a week, there is a wide range of opportunities available in the areas of childminding, private nurseries, out of school care projects, playgroups and crèches.

Working with children is a worthwhile, challenging and immensely rewarding career and should never be seen as an easy option. You will be playing a key role in helping children develop the social and learning skills required to stand them in good stead throughout their lives.

It is important to remember that within all childcare settings, workers will be expected to work with children who may have Additional Support Needs. These could include children affected by physical, sensory impairment, communication or behavioural difficulties.

If you have the right blend of skills and personal qualities, a career in childcare could be just what you’re looking for!

As well as having energy and enthusiasm, you need to have:

• A genuine interest in children and their development
• An ability to work with parents / carers as well as with children
• A commitment to social inclusion
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team
• A commitment to undertake training
• Good communication skills
• Confidence
• Patience
• A helpful, caring and understanding nature
• A sense of fun