Early Years Careers
Be part of something BIG. Working with small children is a big deal. It’s a job that makes a difference by helping to give children the best start in life. Working in early years, you can be part of a team and work in a nursery or pre-school, be your own boss and become a childminder, or use your skills and interests to work in before and after school clubs.
Find the right early years role for you
There are many different roles in early years and childcare. Take a look at the roles below to see which one is best suited to your skill set and interests:
Work in a nursery or pre-school
Working with children from 3 months old to school age in either a nursery or pre-school, you’ll be providing early education in a safe, fun, engaging environment and helping to support children with their learning and development. It’s a job that’s both rewarding and fun, where you build relationships, gain trust and make a real difference.
Work in before and after school clubs
Looking after primary school aged children before and after school, wraparound roles can offer flexibility and a chance to share your passion whether that’s sports, art or nature. Typically, you will work before and after school but you can also work during the school holidays too. It’s a great opportunity to gain experience whilst working flexibly.
Work as a childminder
Once your confidence grows and you have gained experienced working in early years, you may want to utilise your skills and become your own boss. As a childminder, you’ll provide personalised early education and childcare that helps children thrive. You’ll look after small groups of children of different ages, often in your own home, and have the freedom to run your own business and work flexibly.
How to kickstart your early years career
Like the sound of a career in early years? Keep reading to find out how to get started. Whether you’re interested in learning on the job, or would like to gain classroom-based qualifications, we can take you through the options available.
Early years apprenticeships
Start working in early years now and get qualified on the job.
You can kickstart your career in early years with a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner or Level 3 Early Years Educator apprenticeship, requiring no previous experience.
The Level 2 apprenticeship may be more suitable for those leaving school at 16. It allows you to work in an early years setting under supervision. It is an excellent entry point into the sector. The Level 3 apprenticeship may be more suitable for those who want to plan, organise and lead learning activities, and perhaps supervise others.
Apprenticeships combine real work with training and study. You’ll learn new skills, gain experience and earn a salary too!
Get qualified before you start
You don’t always need a qualification to start your career in early years, but it’s something that nurseries and pre-schools will often look for.
If you want to gain a qualification through a classroom-based course, you can get approved qualifications through a range of training providers, such as your local college. These include Level 2 and Level 3 courses.
The T Level in Education and Early Years (broadly equivalent to three A Levels) is also a great way to get qualified. During the 2-year course, you will combine study with a minimum of 9 weeks working with an employer on an industry placement. Find out more about the T Level in Education and Early Years.
If you want to go to university, there are also early years degrees available.
Already qualified in early years?
If you’ve already got an early years or childcare qualification, you’re ready to jump straight in.
Hear from current Early Years Educators
Take a look at our range of videos from those working in different early years settings:
