Careers in Childcare
The childcare sector includes a variety of settings that provide
care for children from
0 - 14
years of age. These include:
- private day nurseries for ages 0 - 5 years
- playgroups for ages 2 years 6 months - 5 years
- children's centres for ages 0 - 5 years
- childminding for for ages 0 - 8 years and 5 - 14 years
- before and after school clubs for ages 4 - 11 years
- holiday play schemes for ages 4 - 14 years (16 if child
has a disability)
- nursery schools for under 5s
There are many qualities and skills required in order to care
for children. These include:
- a genuine interest in children and helping them develop
- patience
- a caring nature
- enthusiasm
- commitment
- stamina
- good communication skills
- confidence
- suitable person checks - you will need to be approved as safe
to work with children
It is important to know that there are childcare career
opportunities for everyone. The childcare sector should
reflect the make up of society and this includes:
- men and women
- people of any age
- people with disabilities
- people of different ethnic origins
- people looking for a career change
- people returning to work after a career break
Do I need experience in order to work with children?
Before you commit yourself to a career in childcare it may be
helpful to get some experience of working with the age group of the
children you are interested in working with. This will help
you decide whether this is the career for you. Local
playgroups, pre-school nurseries, children's centres and holiday
play schemes may welcome volunteers.
Do I need qualifications in order to work with children?
There is a training route available to suit every stage of your
career, from leaving school to higher education level. You
can now gain a recognised qualification in a way that suits
you.
As a requirement of the DfE (Department for Education) at least
50% of those working in a registered childcare setting need to have
a recognised level 2 qualification. This means that gaining a
qualification is an important step in improving your employment and
career opportunities. It also helps you to develop your
skills and give your best to the children in your care.
Do I need a Criminal Record Check?
CRB checks are carried out - and must be carried out - for
anyone who wishes to work with children, the elderly or individuals
who might otherwise be classed as vulnerable.
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) is able to provide information
about an individual as to whether or not he or she has a criminal
conviction or has been charged with a criminal conviction which has
expired.
If you require further information on Careers in Childcare
please contact the Family Information Service on 01706 719900 and
they will put you through to a careers advisor.
Job Match Service
For qualified childcare practitioners
that are seeking employment in the childcare sector Rochdale’s Sure
Start Recruitment & Training Team can provide support in
obtaining employment through our job match service.
Do you meet the following criteria?
1. You are qualified to Level 2 or
above in childcare but are not currently employed in the childcare
sector.
2. You are actively seeking work within
the Rochdale Borough.
Once you are signed up to the service
you will receive a weekly vacancy bulletin. Vacancies distributed
are referred from Job Centre Plus, the Local Authority and local
childcare providers.
To receive an application form please call 01706 747235.