It highlights the range of job opportunities within the childcare sector and explains how you can get into and progress in a career in early years and childcare.

• English skills

• Number skills

• Digital skills

• Employability skills

Educational courses

Enrol in courses at school, college, or a training institution to deepen your understanding of childcare and acquire relevant knowledge and skills. Some courses may include work experience, providing a pathway to a role in the sector. Some care providers also offer pre-employment training.

Apprenticeship

Apply for a childcare apprenticeship to gain practical experience, achieve a qualification, and earn a wage. Apprenticeships typically last between 12 months and two years and include a combination of on-the-job learning, where you work directly with clients and colleagues, and off-the-job learning, which may involve classroom training or workshops. This comprehensive approach helps you develop your skills and knowledge effectively. 

Apply for advertised vacancies

Explore different roles in childcare. Before applying, consider the roles you are interested in. Keep an eye on local authority websites, private sector websites or national recruitment platforms such as the 'WeCare Wales' jobs portal for advertised vacancies.

Volunteering or work experience

If you're new to childcare and want to explore the field, consider volunteering or gaining work experience. Your school, college, or job centre may assist you, or you can contact organisations directly.

Choose Your Path:

Explore the framework to find qualifications that align with your desired role. Examples include Level 2 or 3 Diplomas in Children's Care, Play, Learning and Development, and higher-level qualifications for leadership roles.

Funding Options:

Your employer may be committed to sponsoring and funding your entry-level qualifications, ensuring that you have the support to pursue and attain your qualification. In some regions, additional funding and grants may be available to support your training.

Find a Learning Provider:

Explore various options such as in-house training, local colleges, or online platforms. Local colleges provide a diverse range of childcare qualifications, or you can pursue them while working in the sector. For example, Social Care Wales lists approved training providers and courses that can help you achieve your qualifications.

This free two-day training course is available to anyone residing in Wales who is interested in a childcare career. The training includes essential information on safe working practices and child-centered approaches. For more details or to register your interest, visit WeCare Wales.

Level 2 Core Qualifications:

The Level 2 core qualifications are designed for individuals aged 16 and over who aim to work in childcare, play, and early years roles as assistants. This qualification provides the foundational knowledge required to work in these settings but does not include supervisory responsibilities. You can pursue this qualification at a further education college or through a school sixth form if available.

Level 3 Children's Care, Play, Learning and Development:

To work in childcare in either an unsupervised or supervisory capacity, you must obtain a Level 3 qualification. This practice-based qualification assesses your skills, knowledge, and abilities in a childcare setting.

You will learn about:

• Health, well-being, learning, and development

• Professional practice

• Safeguarding children

• Health and safety

• Child development

• Speech, language, and communication

• Supporting children's nutrition and hydration

Level 4 Preparing for Leadership and Management in Children's Care, Play, Learning and Development:

If you have completed a Level 3 CCPLD or hold an equivalent qualification listed by Social Care Wales (such as for a daycare or creche deputy manager), you might consider advancing to a Level 4 qualification.

A Level 4 qualification:

• Serves as a stepping stone for those intending to pursue a Level 5 qualification.

• Is designed to develop the key knowledge and understanding needed for leadership and management roles in the Children's Care, Play, and Early Years sector. It can be completed without currently being in a leadership role.

• Covers topics such as leading child-centered practice, theoretical frameworks for leadership and management, and how to lead and manage effective team performance.

• Do qualifications relevant to your role

• There are a variety of qualifications at different levels in childcare.

• You could access Welsh government-funded apprenticeship qualifications through a learning provider or college. Your employer might also cover the costs of these qualifications, making them more accessible and affordable for you.

Types of progression

Sideway Moves: Explore diverse job roles, which may involve working in different settings or with varied age groups of children. This could include moving from a nursery setting to a primary school, or from a childminding role to a playwork position.

Upward Shifts: Move into positions with greater responsibilities, requiring further skills, knowledge, and qualifications. For instance, you can progress from being an early years educator to becoming a childcare manager or an early years teacher, with potential to take on leadership roles such as managing a nursery or leading early years education in schools.

Your journey in early years and play is not just a job; it’s a continuous exploration of possibilities. By investing in your skills and embracing new challenges, you can shape a fulfilling and impactful career in the vibrant early years and childcare sector.

Adapting to change

Early years and childcare is an ever-evolving field, adapting to the diverse needs of children and their developmental stages. The goal is to support children's growth, learning, and well-being in various settings, from nurseries and playgroups to schools and community centres. This dynamic environment has created new roles that combine childcare and educational expertise.

Why?

The goal of early years and childcare is to provide the best possible start for children, supporting their development, well-being, and independence.

Who?

As a childcare practitioner, you’ll work with a diverse group of children, including those with varying abilities, backgrounds, and needs. From toddlers to preschoolers, your role is crucial in shaping their early experiences.

Where?

Early years and childcare services are delivered in a range of settings, including nurseries, preschools, childminders’ homes, and community centres.