Contents

Overview
Become a registered childminder
Nursery, pre-school, play group or children's centre assistant
Nanny or home-carer
Early years teacher

Overview

Whatever your background or age, a career in childcare or early years can be very rewarding.

There will always be demand for good quality childcare, play and early education for young children. If you love being around children and are committed to giving them the best possible start in life, a career in early years could be for you.

You'll need a range of skills and qualities to support the children's learning and development:

  • passion and enthusiasm
  • commitment, to improve the lives of children and their families
  • patience, with children, their families and the early years environment
  • flexibility, to deal with change and the unexpected
  • respect for others
  • creativity
  • lots of energy, to keep up with the children and stay motivated
  • sense of humour, to keep learning fun
  • love of learning

There are plenty of opportunities to train and work towards qualifications, part-time, full-time or on a work based learning programme through your local college or university.

All paid and voluntary roles involving contact with children and young people will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check.