Childcare
Nursery nurses care for children up to the age of five, or sometimes eight, in day nurseries, nursery schools, primary schools and hospitals. Some care for older children with disabilities or special educational needs.
Duties can include feeding, bathing and dressing babies, and encouraging older children to learn skills like dressing themselves. Through activities like play, counting games, storytelling and outings, nursery nurses help children to develop social, number and language skills and discover more about the world.
The work also involves observing and assessing children and producing reports on their development.
Nursery nurses usually work 35 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Early morning and evening work may be required to fit in with the working routines of parents. Part-time work is often available. The work involves bending, lifting and carrying, as well as keeping up with energetic, boisterous young children.
A nursery nurse should:
- be patient, warm and caring
- understand the social and emotional needs of children
- enjoy working with babies and young children.
There are vacancies throughout the UK. Nursery nurses are employed by local authorities, voluntary and community groups, private companies and NHS trusts. There is a shortage of childcare places and the government is encouraging people to enter childcare careers.
Nursery nurses who work with children unsupervised must have a Level 3 qualification in a subject like childcare or early years. Nursery assistants, who need a Level 2 qualification, work with children under supervision. It is also possible to start work in a nursery without formal qualifications and work towards NVQs on an apprenticeship programme.
Nursery nurses could be promoted to supervisor or management roles, or set up their own nurseries. Some work as nannies, employed by families to look after children in their own homes. It is possible to train to enter professions such as nursing, teaching or social work.
Early Years Care course at Newbury College:
To apply for any of these courses call 01635 845000 and we will arrange an interview.
Our Learner Services and Information team can also offer careers advice and guidance if you are not sure which course to choose.
Newbury College
Monks Lane
Newbury
RG14 7TD
Telephone: 01635 845000
Fax: 01635 845312
Email: info@newbury-college.ac.uk