Working in childcare
Working with children is a fast-growing profession offering plenty of variety and great prospects. These pages aim to introduce the kind of roles and training available and help answer 2 basic questions:
- what type of work would suit me?
- what should I do next?
What type of work would suit me?
Firstly, think about the age group you want to work with. Work with children aged 0-5 years is usually called 'early years' and includes childminders, nursery nurses, playgroup and creche workers. Work with over 5s outside school hours is normally called 'playwork'. You should consider whether you want to work full or part time. For example, work in a private day nursery or childminding under 5s can be full time. Work in an out-of-school club would usually be part time.
View more information about the different roles available.
What should I do next?
So you've decided what type of work might be suitable for you - but what's the next step?
Experience
Before committing yourself to a job or training, it might be helpful to get some experience working with the age group that interests you. Local playgroups, church groups and holiday playschemes usually welcome volunteers. It may also be possible to gain experience on a voluntary basis in other settings. (You may need Police clearance in accordance with the Protection of Children Act.)
Training
To work in the childcare field, it is recommended that you gain a childcare qualification. Some courses will require full time attendance at college (eg CACHE Diploma/NNEB) with some of your time spent with children in a placement. Other courses may be completed by part-time attendance at college while you are working.
Information & Advice
Whatever you want to do, whatever questions you have, call the Salford Children's Information Project FREE on 0800 195 5565 or email us at scip@salford.gov.uk
Other Useful Links
This page was last updated on 29 February 2008
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