Working in childcare

working in childcare

Working in childcare can be a hugely rewarding career. Whether you are thinking about what to do after leaving school, are already working with children or looking for a change of career you can now gain a recognised qualification in a way that suits you. There are many full and part-time careers available to suit your own lifestyle and family arrangements.

If you want to build a career working in childcare and are interested in working in early years childcare, education, playwork or becoming a childminder contact Sandwell Early Years and Childcare Team for more advice and information.

Contact Sandwell Early Years

email: EarlyYears_Team@sandwell.gov.uk

Different types of childcare

Childminder

Registered childminders look after children under 12 years (sometimes older) in the childminder's own home. They can offer full time, part time, before and after school pick ups and school holiday care. 

Childminders are able to offer parents of disabled children many benefits including flexibility and a highly individualised service.Children are able to mix with other children in a family home environment.

Find out more 


Day Nursery

Day Nurseries look after children up to the age of 5 years. They provide daycare and education for children in age related groups. Day nurseries deliver the Free Early Learning for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. 

Day nurseries can offer before and after school pick ups and holiday care.


Nursery School

Nursery Schools provide Free Early Learning and care for 3 and 4 year olds (Nursery Education).  They are normally based at infant and primary schools.


Pre-School playgroup

Pre-school playgroups provide part time play and some of them offer Free Early Learning for 2, 3 and 4 year olds.  Most sessions are 3 hours either in a morning or afternoon.


Out of School Care

Out of school care is care outside normal school hours these include breakfast clubs, after-school clubs and school holiday playschemes/clubs.


Playworker

Playworkers support children and young people to create their own spaces and opportunities for play.


Early Years Teacher

Early years teachers are specialists in early childhood development and work with children up to the age of 5.

Early Years qualifications finder can help you find out the qualification requirements for different childcare roles.


Types of Childcare

PACEY has information on different childcare options for parents, including group based childcare and one to one care.

Childcare Chooser Chart

A comprehensive overview of childcare options for under 8's

Becoming a nanny

A nanny is a professional childcarer who works in your home, caring for your child or children.


Volunteering

If you are unable to find a job where you can work and train at the same time, you might like to contact local childcare providers to see if they have any volunteering opportunities to help you get started.

 

Starting a new childcare business

There are many different childcare businesses including day nurseries, pre-school playgroups and wraparound out of school provision.

You may wish to start your own business but don't know where to begin.

Contact Sandwell Early Years for business and Ofsted registration support

email: EarlyYears_Team@sandwell.gov.uk


Find out more about managing a childcare business including marketing, paperwork and buying and choosing equipment.

Running a childcare business


Page last reviewed: 23/06/2023

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