Starting a Career in Childcare
Have you ever found joy in spending time with children and helping them learn and grow? A career in childcare might be the perfect fit for you. Working in this field allows you to make positive impact on children’s lives while building meaningful relationships with both kids and their families.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to kickstart your career in childcare, from exploring different roles to obtaining essential certifications and skills. So, if your passionate about working with children, continue reading to learn more about this rewarding profession.
My journey into the world of childcare was not something I had done intentionally but something that has become so fulfilling and an amazing journey so far!
To introduce my background, since I was 11 years old, I’ve trained as a dancer and performer later going on to train within musical theatre at a theatre school in London. Within that I have always worked around children either assisting within dance classes of ballet, jazz and tap, or taking part in charity events with less fortunate children and giving them experiences in performing. When I left university, I worked part time as a dance teacher for various dance schools in London. This gave me an insight into learning how to control big groups of children ages 1 up to the ages of 16. You’d also be communicating with parents and carers on how their children are progressing and got on during the sessions. I then joined Love Care as part of their wraparound side of the business and have loved placing play workers, managers and early years leads across the country! My experiences have helped me understand how someone with a passion for childcare can start a career in this field - and we try and motivate candidates to do so!
For those with a passion for shaping young minds and creating safe, supportive environments for children to thrive, embarking on this journey can be deeply fulfilling. But where do you begin? What backgrounds are sought after, and what traits make a great childcare practitioner? Let's explore.
Starting a career in childcare begins with understanding the diverse pathways available. While formal education and training are beneficial, they aren't the only routes. Here are some avenues to consider:
1. Education:
Pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field. Many institutions offer specialised programs tailored to childcare professionals. When at school you can study Childcare level 2 and 3, which are amazing qualifications to get and will help you get higher paying roles in the future.
2. Experience:
Volunteer or work in childcare settings to gain hands-on experience. This could include roles in teaching assisting, lunchtime supervisor, day-care centres, nurseries, or as a nanny or babysitter.
Participate in internships or apprenticeships to learn directly from experienced practitioners.
3. Continuing Education:
Stay updated on best practices and emerging trends through workshops, seminars, and online courses.
Seek opportunities for professional development and specialisation, such as training in special needs care or early intervention techniques.
The backgrounds we look for at Love Childcare Recruitment really vary from role to role. While formal education in childcare or related fields is valuable, diverse backgrounds can bring unique perspectives and skills to the table. My more junior positions such a play worker allow a great stepping stone for unqualified and unexperienced candidates. I have placed lots of parents and customer service-based candidates in these roles and they have loved it! Even with some of the management roles we look after that don’t require qualifications, I have placed candidates with management experience but just with a passion for childcare - a great foot in the door to childcare. Some other common backgrounds sought after in childcare include:
Early Childhood Education: Candidates with degrees or certifications in Early Childhood Education often possess a deep understanding of child development principles and curriculum planning.
Psychology or Social Work: Professionals with backgrounds in psychology or social work bring insights into children's behavioural and emotional needs, essential for providing supportive care.
Nursing or Healthcare: Individuals with healthcare backgrounds are equipped to handle children's health and safety concerns effectively, always ensuring their well-being.
Fine Arts or Performing Arts: Creativity plays a crucial role in engaging young minds. Candidates with backgrounds in fine arts or performing arts can incorporate creative activities into childcare programs, fostering imagination and self-expression.
The traits of a great childcare practioner go beyond qualifications and backgrounds, certain traits distinguish exceptional childcare practitioners. I have a few traits I like to tick off the list when speaking with candidates, one massively important one would be communication skills. Safeguarding wise this is very important to have effective communication, both with children and their families. Clear and compassionate communication fosters positive relationships and ensures everyone is on the same page regarding the child's care and development.
Secondly, working with children requires patience and understanding. A great childcare practitioner remains calm and composed, even in challenging situations. Following on from this I think adaptability within childcare settings is paramount as they are dynamic environments, requiring practioners to adapt to changing needs and circumstances flexibly.
One of the first questions I’ll ask a candidate is whether they have a passion or hobby that could relate to a childcare setting in terms of what activity’s they could provide to the setting and team. If they love arts and crafts, cooking, science, dancing or even gardening, everything is transferable and exciting to the children! Incorporating imaginative and stimulating activities sparks children's curiosity and promotes learning. A creative approach to childcare keeps experiences fresh and engaging. Admittedly, one of the traits that is tougher to distinguish over a phone call would be empathy, this is a trait you’d hopefully pick up once a candidate goes for a trial or visit at the provision. Empathising with children's feelings and experiences is key to building trust and creating a nurturing environment where they feel valued and supported.
The final desirable trait is TEAMWORK! One of the benefits working within childcare is being able to collaborate with colleagues, parents, and other professionals involved in a child's life. This enhances the quality of care and support provided. A great childcare practitioner values teamwork and fosters a collaborative environment.
Starting a career in childcare is not just about fulfilling a job role; it's about making a meaningful impact on young lives. Whether you're drawn to the field by a passion for education, a love for children, or a desire to contribute to society's future, there's a place for you in this rewarding profession. By combining the right qualifications, diverse backgrounds, and essential traits, you can embark on a journey of nurturing and shaping the next generation, one child at a time.
If you need any advice regarding your journey and career within childcare, whether that starting out or working in the industry already. Love Childcare Recruitment specialise throughout the UK and have various clients in the nursery, sports, wraparound, holiday camps and head office world! We are here to help on your search for the right position for you, so feel free to visit our website or follow us on our LinkedIn page.