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Early Years Careers

Switch into
something big

This September, we’re inviting you to explore a rewarding career in early years and childcare – a role that helps to give children the best start in life.

Why make the switch?

  • It’s a career that shapes children’s lives and fits around yours
  • There’s variety and progression – nursery, pre-school, childminding, or leadership
  • You will have everyday qualities like patience, empathy, and organisation that are the types of skills that will help get you started

Download the full Switching Into Something Big guide with tips, resources, and inspiring stories to help you make the leap.

Download the guide

You have what it takes to get started

I worried about not having the right qualifications, but my parenting experience turned out to be my best asset. — Laura, Early Years Educator

Think of the skills you use every day – patience, empathy, creativity, organisation. Whether you’ve raised children, supported family, or built experience in another job, these are the skills many early years employers are looking for, and training and apprenticeships can build the rest.

Tips from Alice Stapleton, career change coach

Switching careers can feel daunting, but Alice’s advice makes it easier:

  • Test drive it first – try volunteering, shadowing, or a short course to see how the role feels in real life.
  • Plan for the “what ifs” – write down your worries, score how likely they are, and note what you’d do if they happened.
  • Take one step at a time – break the change into small, manageable actions. Each one builds momentum and confidence.

Tips for mastering your CV and interview

  • On your CV, include details of the results you achieved in previous roles. Make them relevant to the job you’re applying for.
  • Focus on the skills that matter most for the role – making it easier to show the difference you’ve made and how you’re a great fit.
  • Before your interview, prepare some questions to ask the panel. Remember, interviews are a two-way conversation – it’s also your chance to see whether the organisation feels like the right fit for you.

Explore the different roles

Where you can work in early years and childcare:

• Nursery
• Pre-school or nursery school
• As a registered childminder
• In before and after school clubs

A woman looking closely at a dressed-up child in a blue cape staring heroically at the ceiling.

Become a childminder

There is also the option to become a registered childminder, where you could change lives from your living room.

A woman and a child playing with blocks in a living room.

Whether you’re starting fresh, returning to work, or looking for something more meaningful, there’s a path for you. From apprenticeships to leadership roles, early years is full of opportunity.

Ever wondered what an early years career really looks like?
Watch real staff in action and see the range of roles you could step into.

Search for jobs

If you’re ready to apply now, you can search for early years jobs and apprenticeships in your local area. 

Find early years roles
Find an apprenticeship

Help and support

Need a helping hand? Our support agents can answer your questions about working in early years education.

A woman with stained hands high-fives a child.