Get the right qualifications and training for childcare

To work in childcare, you need to have relevant childcare qualifications. There is a minimum requirement of level 2. However, most nurseries require practitioners to hold at least a level 3 qualification. It all depends on the level of experience you have and your capabilities, which will determine which job role you will be able to apply for. A manager responsible for running a nursery is recommended to have a higher level childcare qualification, such as a level 4 or above. It’s also advised that they obtain managerial experience. Practitioners that work in nurseries, pre-schools, or out-of-school clubs will require an early year’s qualification.

Here is a list of early education and childcare qualifications that are considered complete and relevant.

The NNEB Certificate and Diploma are considered complete and relevant at Level 3.

If you’ve got another qualification, such as a teaching assistant qualification, this could also be considered a complete and relevant level 3 qualification.

An NVQ is a widely respected qualification for all vocational work in the UK. The standard of an NVQ in childcare are assessed by CACHE, which is an industry awarding body.

First aid training is essential if you’re working with children, even on an occasional basis. You will be trained to know exactly what to do in the case of an emergency, whether you’re alone or with additional staff members.

You will have peace of mind by undertaking a paediatric first aid training course, as you will be provided with the relevant skills and knowledge to tackle a medical emergency.

Paediatric first aid training courses generally cover the following topics:

Due to it being such an in-depth course can help you prepare for any challenges you might face when working with children. Once complete, it’s imperative to keep up to date with the training every three years.

There are many excellent benefits of taking a first-aid course. It isn’t only essential that you could save lives in critical situations with a few simple techniques. It also enables you to deal with sprains, knocks, and broken bones. It will also help in aiding you to deal effectively with children choking. These situations are avoided at best, but sometimes, they can’t be helped and do happen. It’s best to be fully prepared for these events.

The first few seconds after an accident can make a big difference. Irrespective of where you live and the access you have to emergency facilities, it’s always a good idea to know how to deal with a child or infant-related trauma.

Many people looking at a lot of different industries, including childcare, face the challenge of not having any experience in the profession. Families expect employees to be trustworthy, honest, responsible, and passionate about helping their children grow, learn, and develop into young individuals who feel happy, secure and loved.

Most families require employees to have the relevant experience, and more times than not, to be qualified in childcare.

Become an Au-pair (Nanny)

Those that are wanting to gain experience in childcare would start by living with a host family. An Au-pair is usually required to help care for children for 25 hours per week. The family will welcome the Au-pair into their home and provide full accommodation. However, a nanny can choose whether they apply for live-in jobs or jobs required before and after school care.

Volunteering

This is an excellent way to gain the experience you need to work with children. You could consider volunteering through your local Church with groups such as Brownies, Guides, etc. This can be rewarding at the same time as giving you the experience you require.

Short Childcare Course

Another way to gain valuable knowledge is by attending a short childcare course. These courses are very cost-effective, and people often walk away feeling more content and confident within themselves. These courses are suitable for all candidates and help you to gain more knowledge relating to the following:

Attending College

Gaining qualifications for childcare is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience as some courses include a placement. Many families prefer employees to have formal childcare qualifications.

Becoming Ofsted Registered

It might be beneficial for you to become registered with Ofsted on the voluntary childcare register. This is beneficial for many families as they can save on their childcare costs if they meet the criteria. Once you register with the voluntary childcare register, the parents can sign up for the Tax-Free Childcare scheme.

Childcare References

References are essential when applying for any job. However, childcare references are vital when working with children. Whether you have previously volunteered with children or you’ve worked for a family, it’s essential to have written childcare references to provide.

Researching about the different avenues of childcare can help you find the perfect career for you. There are other ways you can explore and educate yourself. There are also other popular jobs with children if you’re not keen on working in a nursery, such as:

If you’re keen on researching from home, then there are many places you could begin your process. However, if you are considering going into education, some colleges offer courses to any person, which could be beneficial for you. Or, another open would be an available college or open university. This can be funded by student finance (if you qualify), and you work in the comfort of your own home.

Open University

Open College

When a childcare professional, you may find a wide range of languages used by other staff members and children. It is up to you whether you’d are eager to learn any more about the language and teach yourself or hire a tutor. This can be beneficial for yourself, the child, and the families involved.

Over time, you will build your vocabulary in this language by picking up what the parents and child say.