Apprenticeship in childcare
If you want to train in childcare, an apprenticeship will enable you to channel your creativity, talent and commitment into the foundations of a successful career . Childcare students can go into professions such as:
- assistant nursery nurse
- pre-school assistant
- crèche assistant
- classroom assistant
- children’s holiday representative
- mothers help
FAQs
- Is childcare for me?
- Can I get funding to do an apprenticeship?
- What qualifications do I need to start on an apprenticeship?
- How does an apprenticeship work?
- What does the training involve?
- What will I gain?
- What career training progression is there?
Is childcare for me?
A career in childcare is demanding, fun, responsible and focuses on children and families. You need to be caring, patient, have lots of energy and enjoy meeting different people. Excellent punctuality and attendance, commitment and good communication skills are all vital.
Can I get funding to do an apprenticeship?
Individuals aged 16 to 19 are usually funded by the government to do apprenticeships. If you're over 19 you can still do an apprenticeship but you'll have to find alternative funding such as employer sponsorship. Contact us if you need more advice about this.
What qualifications do I need to start on an apprenticeship?
You don’t need formal qualifications but reasonable maths and English are required as is the willingness to learn about child development. If necessary your training will develop these skills further. All training is planned to suit your individual needs, ability and learning preferences.
How does an apprenticeship work ?
On a childcare apprenticeship you’ll be employed for 9 to 12 months in a local childcare organisation, earning a salary whilst training. You’ll complete NVQ Level 2 in Children’s Care, Learning & Development, a technical certificate, and "key" or "functional" skills qualifications which are essential for a successful childcare career.
What does the training involve?
You will attend our state-of-the-art training centre each week, usually for half a day. Training covers aspects of children’s care, learning and development including:
- keeping children safe
- supporting children’s development
- supporting children’s play and learning
- supporting routines for children
- encouraging children’s positive behaviour
You’ll also undertake additional courses including:
- paediatric first aid
- HIV awareness
- equality and diversity.
The rest of your working week is spent ‘on the job’ in your workplace where you’ll acquire practical skills from childcare professionals.
What will I gain?
As well as your qualifications, you’ll gain strong interpersonal and practical caring skills along with industry knowledge. You'll acquire experience whilst enjoying participating in a real work setting with children and parents. You’ll undertake practical activities and learn about respecting people and cultures. After your apprenticeship you’ll be qualified to work with children up to age 16 in a variety of settings and roles.
What career training progression is there?
Once qualified, we’ll offer you support and encouragement if you wish to progress onto one of our advanced courses such as the level 3 advanced apprenticeship or NVQ level 3 in childcare to become a nursery nurse or playgroup/crèche leader. These courses take between 18 and 20 months. Beyond this you can progress to a level 4 qualification and a management role. From there we can help you progress onto a higher education course such as a foundation degree.
If you have a question that hasn't been answered on this page please contact us
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