Working in early years and childcare

You can get so much out of working with small children. It’s a job with impact, where you get to be part of their early education and make a difference that lasts a lifetime. You can be part of a team, lead a team or be your own boss and become a childminder. Do something big.

Where you can work

There are many different roles in early years and childcare. You can work in:

  • nurseries
  • pre-schools
  • playgroups
  • schools
  • your own home as a childminder
What you’ll do

You’ll support children’s development by being part of their early education and opening their minds to new ideas every day. This could involve:

  • providing structured learning 
  • engaging in creative play
  • encouraging physical skills and independence 
  • shaping each child’s learning based on their needs 
  • providing a safe and stimulating space
  • building relationships with parents and carers 
What you’ll need

The qualifications and skills you’ll need will depend on the role, but for most jobs, you’ll need a DBS check. Your employer will let you know the type of check you’ll need before you start your job. 

Work in a nursery

In the shape of a triangle-shaped building block for children, is a photo of a smiling woman holding a baby.

Work in a pre-school or nursery school

In the shape of a hexagon-shaped building block for children, is a photo of a group of children sitting with two women around a table in a playroom.

Work as a childminder

 

 

In the shape of a star-shaped building block for children, is a photo of a woman and a child playing with blocks in a living room.

Work in before and after school clubs

In the shape of a triangle-shaped building block for children, is a photo of a man kneeling with a child during sports activities in a playground.

Search for jobs

If you’re ready to apply now, you can search for jobs in the early years and childcare sector. There are around 30,000 nurseries and pre-schools in the UK, so there are lots of opportunities out there.

Find early years roles

Real stories

Discover the real stories from early years educators making a difference, their way. Hear what they have to say about where they work and what their role is like.

 

A man reading to children in a classroom.

Training and qualifications

If you would like to grow in your career and get involved in other roles, find out more about the qualifications you can take.

Two women and 3 children playing hopscotch