Early Years
The most important period of a child’s life are the first five years, this is the period for laying the foundations for their learning and development. Working in Early education and childcare opens a wide range of roles with in the sector.
Working in the Early Years sector is very rewarding. You will have the opportunity to support and influence the outcomes for children as they learn, develop and prepare for school.
Some of the skills when working with children aged 0-5 years include:
good communication and listening skills
patience and understanding to support young children to grow and develop in their early lives
an understanding of child development
being creative and passionate
good organisational skills to be able to observe and plan for children’s learning and development and respond to children’s varying needs.
Roles working within the Early Years Sector:
Early years practitioner Level 2, level 3, level 4 and Level 5
Children’s centre/family worker/practitioner level 2, level 3
Interested in becoming a Childminder in Central Bedfordshire? You will need to complete a pre-registration session.
The Early Years Workforce Strategy has published a career pathway and the Department of Education has specific advice about becoming an Early Years Teacher.
Please click on the image to download it.
Pathways
There are many pathways into a career in early years including the traditional academic routes.
Local further and higher education providers and courses:
Further Education
Apprenticeships - Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study. To search for and become an apprentice, start here.
Traineeship - Traineeships are designed help young people who want to get an apprenticeship or job but don’t yet have appropriate skills or experience. More information can be found here.
Higher Education -
University of Bedfordshire
University of Northampton
The Open University