To start a career in childcare, individuals need to feel positively motivated to work with children and their families. Some people do view a career in childcare as an option after life-changing experiences. People have different reasons for choosing childcare as career. There are specific requirements for careers in childcare, such as:
- Skills to help children develop
- Knowledge of health and safety
- Training in childcare
- Choosing a type of childcare
- Registering, such as with Ofsted, where required
- Understanding laws for childcare
With the need for people to work, have help with they are sick, and so on, there is always a need for people with childcare skills and experience. People interested in childcare can start by asking themselves honest questions.
Questions for a career in childcare
Those wanting to pursue a career in childcare can start by asking themselves questions such as these to consider the possible answers:
- Is there any reason that I should not work with children?
- Or, am I a suitable person to work with children?
- What skills and experiences do I already have that can transfer to childcare?
- What age group of children do I want to care for?
- What are the opportunities for childcare in this age group?
- Do I want to have my own business or register with an Agency/Employer?
- What training is required for this specific type of childcare?
- Do I want to study full time or part time in childcare?
- Are there development opportunities in this field of childcare?
- Who can I talk to about my interest in a career in childcare?
- Where do I start in childcare and where do I hope my childcare career will lead me?
People with addictive behaviours, which could put children at risk, or criminal records that are unspent or relate to abuse of children are usually not considered for opportunities in childcare.
Each type of childcare comes with different responsibilities and skills. Opportunities in the UK exist from Babysitting, working as nannies, to working in day centres, nurseries, schools, childminding, and in playgroups. Childcare not only involves ensuring the child is safe at all times, but also the development of the child’s skills. Qualifications required differ depending on the role.
Training in childcare, depending on the role, can be obtained through the local authority in the UK or through colleges and universities. Some people opt for full time study in childcare, while part time study is suitable for others. Studies may be for an NVQ or BTEC in childcare, or certificates in psychology or child development. There are also courses leading to diploma or degree. On the job training may also be an option with certain employers, agencies or providers.
Career opportunities in childcare
Opportunities to develop a career in childcare range from entry level to assistant level to supervisor and to managerial level, depending on the type of childcare role. Entry level may be Babysitter or Childcare Volunteer; Assistant level may be a Nursery Assistant or Playwork Assistant; Supervisor may be a Nursery Nurse, Nanny, Childminder, or Disability / Special Needs Worker; and Managerial level may be a Development Worker or Childcare Coordinator. For each level of career opportunity, additional training and qualification is required.
