Working in pre-schools and playgroups
Working in pre-schools and playgroups
If you would like to work with children aged from 2- to 5-years-old, a career in a pre-school or playgroup could be the right choice.
There are lots of different opportunities available working with children in the Early Years, watching them grow, supporting them in their activities and providing an exciting and stimulating environment.
Pre-schools and playgroups provide play and early education for children aged 2- to 5-years-old. They generally operate during school term time usually for 2 hours or more per session, mornings and afternoons. Pre-schools and playgroups operate from a variety of locations, including community centres, church halls and scout huts.
Children attend pre-schools and playgroups for a variety of reasons including:
- to gain sound educational experiences with the emphasis on learning through play
- to develop skills and confidence prior to starting school
- to have opportunities to socialise and make friends
Pre-schools and playgroups may be operating as a private business, a voluntary or community organisation, or be a nursery school or linked to a school.
As an entry point into the Early Years Workforce, you could work as a Trainee Assistant without having a childcare qualification. However, you'll need to have the desire and academic ability to undertake on the job training to achieve a minimum level 2 qualification.
There are good opportunities for promotion, and with further qualifications and training you can progress to being a supervisor, deputy manager or manager.
