CAREERS IN EARLY YEARS EDUCATION, CHILDCARE AND PLAYWORK

Ever thought about working with children?

There has never been a better time to work in early years, childcare and playwork. There are lots of options to choose from.

Day Nurseries

 Offer full day care from around 8.00am-6.00pm
 Cater for babies and toddlers and children up to the age of five years
 Work either full-time or part-time or supply as and when it suits you and the nursery

Pre-schools and Playgroups

 Offer sessional childcare and education either morning or afternoon (sometimes both)
 Cater for children aged from two to five years
 Usually term-time only so working hours can be flexible

Playwork

 Usually holiday playschemes and out of school clubs offering organised activities before and after school and during school holidays
 Cater for children of school age up to 14 years
 Working hours can be flexible – part-time or full-time - as some settings offer the full range of care which is known as wrap around care

Childminding

 Work in your own home so working hours are up to you.
 Maximum of up to six children can be minded (including your own) dependent upon ages of children and size of home.
 Childminders must be registered with the Early Years Directorate of Ofsted.

Why Choose to Work in Early Years, Childcare and Playwork?

 Because it's challenging
 Because it's rewarding
 Because it's important, and, most of all
 Because it's enjoyable!

There are opportunities to train and to get qualifications in early years, childcare and playwork and these can provide routes to many other careers in childcare too.

Recruitment, Training and Job Vacancies

Please call the Recruitment and Training Helpline on 0845 6023209 for details of recruitment opportunities and job vacancies in Swindon.

Alternatively, please telephone Swindon Job Centre on 01793 586000 or visit their website: www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk.

Further Information

The Department for Children Schools and Families have an excellent website on childcare issues and information on working with children in many different childcare settings. Visit their website: www.childcarecareers.gov.uk for more details and to start off your career in childcare now!