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Working in early years and childcare can make a difference that lasts a lifetime and means supporting the learning, growth, and well-being of children from infancy through adolescence. You can be part of a team, lead a team or be your own boss and become a childminder. There are many different roles in early years and childcare. You can work in:
nurseries
pre-schools
playgroups
schools
your own home as a childminder
You'll support children's development by being part of their early education and opening their minds to new ideas every day. This could involve:
providing structured learning
engaging in creative play
encouraging physical skills and independence
providing a safe and simulating space
building relationships with parents and carers
The qualifications and skills you'll need will depend on the role, but for most jobs, you'll need a DBS check.
The Early Years and Childcare Toolkit has been developed collaboratively with input from childcare and nursery practitioners, Children's Services, and Career staff. It highlights the wide range of skills and experience of professionals working in the sector.
Work in a nursery
The work will depend on the nurseries size and set up, and more importantly the ages and personalities of the children. Your role will be to provide early education in a safe, fun, engaging environment and support children with their learning and development.
The average starting salary is £16,000 to an experienced nursery worker at £24,000. The typical working hours are 30 to 40 hours a week, between 8am and 6pm, on a rota.
You can get into this job through:
a college course
an apprenticeship
volunteering
applying directly
Work as a childminder
Working as a childminder allows you to be your own boss, work flexibly and help the children your care for thrive. You don't have to work alone as you can build networks or employ assistants and set up your business your way.
Childminders offer professional home-away-from-home childcare and look after small groups of children of different ages. Some childminders offer wraparound childcare. This means looking after children of all ages before and after school. It can also mean looking after them during the school holidays.
Early years teacher
The work will depend on the school's size and set up, more importantly the ages and personalities of the children. Your role will be to provide early education in a safe, fun, engaging environment and support children with their learning and development, getting them ready for school. You'll generally work with young children aged 3 to 5. You may also get to work with children with additional needs.
The average starting salary is £27,000 to an experience early years teacher at £42,000. The typical working hours are 32 to 40 hours a week, term time, between 8am and 6pm.
You can get into this job through:
a university course and will usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, or equivalent, including English, Maths and Science. 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent for a degree.
working towards this role by starting as a nursery worker or teaching assistant and doing a part-time degree in childhood studies or child development
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