Can I Work in a Nursery Without Qualifications?

Nurseries provide essential Early Years education to young children, laying solid foundations for them to thrive in their school years and beyond. But it’s not just qualified teachers who can work in a nursery. There are ways to work in a nursery without a qualification.

So, if you’d love to work with and support young children with their development and social skills, working in a nursery could be an enriching career. Better still, a 2022 government survey shows there are plenty of opportunities available.

In this article we’ll explore how you can work in a nursery without qualifications.

Is it possible to work in a nursery without qualifications?

Yes, it is possible to work in a nursery without qualifications. In fact, many people begin their careers as nursery assistants before investing in training to become fully qualified nursery nurses.

Of course, having relevant qualifications makes it easier to find a job, but some nurseries will – and often do – take on applicants who show a genuine interest in the work and want to learn.

How to get a nursery job without qualifications

If you’re interested in exploring a career in the early years sector but don’t have formal childcare qualifications, there are still ways to find a job. However, people with childcare qualifications often find it easier because nurseries will see they have the necessary skills to support young children.

Let’s look at how you can find employment in a nursery, even if you don’t have childcare qualifications.

Gain general qualifications

Many employers consider GCSEs the gold standard for entry-level jobs, and a job as a nursery assistant often requires GCSEs at grade 4 (C) in Maths, English and Science. However, many employers will also accept functional skills qualifications.

If you want to pursue early years education qualifications, GCSEs are often required for NVQs and other courses. Remember, some employers might accept you without Science, but you should aim for five GCSEs, including Maths and English.

Get relevant experience

It’s always a good idea to get some experience as it allows you to see whether a childcare career is right for you. For example, if you have your own children, you’ll know how to plan activities and support them with basic developmental skills.

Some people use previous babysitting experience when applying to be a nursery worker, and asking parents for references can prove your commitment to childcare and your passion for Early Years.

If you don’t have these options, finding volunteer work is a great way to give yourself some much-needed experience. Not only does volunteering prove you’re passionate about childcare, but it can also help you gain valuable skills from qualified nursery staff.

The Do IT website can help you find volunteer work in your area, but you can also help at local nurseries or as a playgroup assistant.

Apply for relevant roles

It’s possible to work in a nursery without qualifications, and proving your passion for childcare can help you find a suitable position. Spend some time on your CV and cover letter, and try to find relevant resumes that will verify your suitability for childcare work.

According to a Stanford University study, a person’s attitude can be more important than intelligence when applying for a position. Many employers consider qualifications as a sign of intelligence, but your attitude and the passion you show for a childcare career can help you find a job.

The role of early years worker in a nursery

Nursery workers have various roles, including supporting nursery nurses with the general care of children. You might also work under an early years educator, helping them carry out activities and promoting a safe environment.

Here’s what you could be doing every day.

Supporting children with daily care

Nurseries often take children from birth to five years old, so the daily care you provide can be varied. For example, you might have to change nappies and help children with toilet training, while others might need less support.

Other activities include preparing drinks and food, along with helping children eat. Most nurseries expect their employees to learn about hygiene and food preparation.

Facilitating daily activities

You’ll also support other staff with planning and delivering daily activities for children, including educational experiences, messy play and sports. Early years education specialists and nursery nurses usually plan the activities, but you might help to set them up and clear things away afterwards.

A significant part of your role could be to provide extra support for children with special educational needs, ensuring they can enjoy activities or helping them with literacy and numeracy.

Communicating with parents and co-workers

Parents want to know their children will have the proper care, and part of their job will be to liaise with parents and update them on the child’s progress. Typical duties might include flagging, reporting on safeguarding issues and keeping general paperwork.

As you work under the guidance of nursery nurses and early years educators, you’ll also keep them updated and follow the necessary instructions.

Find entry-level nursery worker roles at ABLE Staffing

If you’d like to work in a nursery and build a successful career, ABLE Staffing can help. We work with both qualified and unqualified individuals who are passionate about early years care and have a range of resources available.

Our dedicated team can also provide advice and tips, helping you find the right roles. Please feel free to contact us today or look at the early years practitioner jobs on our website.