A Careers Guide to Working with Children & Young People A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Contents 1 Contents 2 Introduction 3 Using the booklet 4 Starting from the beginning 6 ‘Choices’ 8 Making use of your previous experiences and knowledge 9 What are ‘recognised qualifications’? 11 Job roles 37 Level 1 - Introductory courses and qualifications 38 Level 2 – Qualifications 40 Level 3 – Qualifications 44 Level 4 – Qualifications 47 Level 5 – Qualifications 49 Level 6 – Qualifications 52 Level 7 – Qualifications 54 Level 8 – Qualifications 55 Advice and guidance 57 Funding 59 Contacts 62 Useful websites 1 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Introduction Welcome to the Careers Guide to Working with Children! We hope that this guide gives you the chance to consider the wide range of opportunities available working with children and young people in Devon - from Teaching to Playwork, Nursery Management to Educational Psychology. Over the past few years, opportunities to work with children and young people in Devon have increased significantly, so there’s never been a better time to consider working in this sector. In response to new Government initiatives, childcare provision across the UK has rapidly expanded and brought with it new jobs such as Playworkers and Children’s Centre Managers. In schools, new roles such as Higher Level Teaching Assistants have been created, and across the county, professionals supporting children, young people, families and communities are working together in new ways. The Children and Young People’s workforce also now boasts a wide range of professional qualifications across the job roles, and the eagerly anticipated Integrated Qualifications Framework is expected to offer workers even better opportunities to move across a range of disciplines within the workforce, without the need to completely re-train. It’s an exciting time to work with children and young people! This guide describes outlines a range of opportunities involving working with children and young people aged 0–16, and the associated training and development required for these roles. You’ll also find contact information at the back of the guide, which will enable you to obtain more detailed information about the areas you’re most interested in. Good Luck! Disclaimer This guide has been collated by Devon County Council, who wishes to thank all the contributors from a wide range of agencies and organisation working with children and young people across the county. Please note that some information may have changed since the publication of this guide, so please do check details and updates with the relevant contacts provided at the back of the document. 2 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Using the booklet What is the booklet for? • To describe the range of job opportunities which involve working with children and young people. • To identify the range of training courses and qualifications currently available working with children and young people in Devon. • To demonstrate how these courses and qualifications relate to the various jobs in the sector. • To identify local and national contacts, career routes and funding. Who is this booklet for? • It is a guide for anyone considering a career working with children and young people aged between 0–16 years. • It is also a useful resource for people already working in the sector who are seeking further information about career progression and other opportunities. • It is also helpful to employers and career advisors. What does it cover? Roles in: • Early Years (working with 0-5 year olds) • Childcare (working with 4-16 year olds) • Education, including Teaching and Support roles (working with 4-18 year olds) • Health Services, including hospitals and clinics • Social Care • Crime reduction • Supporting children with specific or additional needs • Youth groups and clubs • Sports and Fitness • Self employment opportunities • Professional support 3 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Starting from the beginning This Career Guide will provide answers to some of the questions you may have about working or gaining a qualification in work with children and young people. The aim is to help you to make a decision about what interests you and to make informed choices about which jobs and qualifications may best suit your needs and interests. Are there any entry requirements? Enthusiasm and a strong interest in your chosen area of work is essential, but in addition, it’s useful to gain as much voluntary experience as you can where possible. This can make a big difference when applying for jobs, especially where there is a lot of competition. Previous or current studies towards qualifications associated with working with children and young people is also very valuable. The second half of this guide lists some of the common qualifications of this nature. Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Checks Most jobs involving children and young people now require a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) disclosure or check, which is usually carried out once an offer of employment has been issued. The CRB was launched in March 2002 as an Executive Agency of the Home Office, providing wider access to criminal record information through its Disclosure service. This service enables organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors to make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work e.g. involving children. There are two different checks – standard and enhanced – and your employer will undertake the relevant check for your circumstances. The requirements are that you declare any convictions you may have. You will also need to provide details of any other names you have been known by. The checks will be made against records containing names of people who have already been found to be unsuitable to work with children and young people. These details are held by the Department of Health and the Department of Education and Skills, under the Protection of Children Act 1999. Having a criminal conviction will not necessarily prevent you from working with children and young people. It will depend on the nature of the offence, the severity of the sentence and whether you are otherwise suitable. Applicants should note that it is a criminal offence to apply if you are already disqualified from working with children and young people.’ 4 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Statutory certificated entry programmes For employees wishing to work with children and young people, the following courses should be considered: First Aid You can undertake the basic foundation course in emergency first aid which provides basic knowledge, sufficient to safely administer first aid to children. Alternatively, there are more advanced courses available e.g. First Aid at Work, which is Health and Safety Executive Approved. If you are not able to attend courses due to time and/or childcare restraints, First Aid e-learning courses provide an easy way to learn at your own pace. For further information and advice, look at the following website: www.bbc.co.uk/health/first_aid_action Basic Food Hygiene This course is required for those working in settings who have contact with food. Are there any age restrictions? In general, employers prefer employees to be at least 18 years old before working with children, especially those wishing to work with very young children. However, if you are under 18 and have a real interest in working in this area, you can start by undertaking an introductory course. There are many ways of doing this, such as a work placement organised through your school/college or training provider, or an Apprenticeship. Your careers service, i.e. Connexions, Jobcentre Plus, will give you further advice and guidance. Of course, it is not only young people who want to work with children and young people mature people are welcomed and there is plenty of scope for all ages. Since October 2006 it has been illegal for employers to discriminate on age grounds, and Devon County Council works hard to promote and support employers in ensuring they are delivering the highest quality services to children, young people and their families, by employing the best, most appropriate staff for the jobs. 5 sA Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service ‘Choices’ A free half day information workshop for people wishing to find out more about a career working with children and young people. ‘Choices’ is a free, informal four hour workshop designed to help you make an informed choice about whether working with children is right for you. You’ll find out about qualifications and training, funding and career opportunities, and receive advice about what steps to take next. It is especially relevant for people with little or no experience of working with children. During the session, attendees learn about the different types of roles available working with children from 0–14 years (or 16 for children with special educational needs), as well as identifying the working environments where these opportunities arise. This allows each person to decide which age group they would most like to work with, if any. Attendees are given one-to-one guidance at the end of the workshop to help build an action plan. Attendees will also gain information about the types of qualifications and methods of study which are relevant to each person’s area of interest and personal circumstances, together with details of any funding which may be available. To book onto a ‘Choices’ session, please call the Children & Young People’s Services on Freephone 0800 056 36 66. Courses run quarterly in locations across Devon and are free of charge. 6 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Early Years and Childcare Service Senior District Co-ordinators Melissa Filby (Torridge & North Devon) Telephone 01271 388901 Nikki Phillips (Exeter, East & Mid Devon) Telephone 01392 385394 Sue Bolt (Teignbridge and South West Devon) Telephone 01392 384926 Early Years and Childcare Service District Co-ordinators Kerry Thorne (East Devon) Telephone 01392 385581 Vacancy (West Devon) Telephone 01392 386951 Calendula Bowen (Mid Devon and part of West Devon) Telephone 01884 257902 Workforce Development Worker Heather Quance Telephone 07815 185608 [email protected] Recruitment Administrator Simon Twigg Telephone 01392 385398 [email protected] Connexions Cornwall and Devon Connexions is a support service for young people aged 13–19. Telephone 0800 975 5111 Jobseeker Direct Part of Jobcentre Plus, providing information about job vacancies and how to apply. Open weekdays 9am – 6pm, Saturdays 9am –1pm. Telephone 0845 6060 234 Nicola Wills (Exeter) Telephone 01392 385380 Christine Andrews (Exeter) Telephone 01392 385534 Tania Skinner (South Hams) Telephone 01392 386072 or 01803 869372 Sandra Ackfield (North Devon) Telephone 01271 388901 Becky Bayet (Torridge) Telephone 01271 388901 Jackie Colby & Vacancy (Teignbridge) Telephone 01392 384926 Please refer to the ‘Local Organisations’ section on page 59 for details of other agencies. 7 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Making use of your previous experiences and knowledge You may already be working in the play, education, youth or childcare sector or may be a parent, carer or a volunteer. The choice of opportunities to train or progress in this field of work is vast and it is important to find out what age range and what type of setting would suit you. There are many career paths you can take to reach your goal. However, as you progress towards your goal you may decide to alter course. The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) has approved a framework of qualification equivalents that show what ‘counts’ from learning already undertaken. The table on the following page provides an explanation of how each level equates to different types of qualification and also who would be most appropriate to commence a qualification/course at that level. When making career moves, you need to make the most of valuable experience and learning. Evidence of previous learning or experience may be accredited (see below). It is helpful if training providers offering non-accredited courses indicate the level and standards to which they relate. This makes it easier to use if attendees wish to seek accreditation. Accreditation of Prior and Experiential Learning (APEL) It is worth considering what experiences of working with children and young people you may already be able to bring forward for your qualification. You may have a combination of acquired skills and knowledge gained in a variety of ways. APEL can help you to access certificated courses to NVQ Levels 2, 3 or 4. The Children’s Workforce Development Council (CWDC) is developing guidance on the accreditation of prior learning and experience to guide individuals who want to re-enter the workforce, or who may have achieved their qualifications some time ago and need to update their skills. This guidance will help to show how they can measure their earlier achievements against the requirements of qualifications in the new framework and, where appropriate, claim credit towards an accredited qualification. For further information, contact their website:- www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/qualifications/index.asp Your ‘core’ skills gained through working with children and parents are transferable to a range of sectors of work with children. For example: you have gained a Level 2 Award in Children’s Care, Learning and Development and decide to undertake a playwork award. Some of your acquired skills can be transferred to awards at Levels 2 and 3 of the Playwork NVQ. Integrated Qualifications Framework The Children’s Workforce Development Council is working with its partners in the Children’s Workforce Network to develop an Integrated Qualifications Framework (IQF). The aim is to establish more comparative qualifications and to enable practitioners to move more freely between roles within the sector. This is closely linked to the Early Years and Social Care reform that is currently going on in light of the new National Occupational Standards and Induction Standards. For more information about the Integrated Qualifications Framework, visit www.cwdcouncil.org.uk and click on Projects 8 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service What are ‘recognised qualifications’? Recognised qualifications are those which have been approved by the Qualification and Curriculum Authority (QCA). QCA is the regulatory authority which oversees the work of the awarding bodies such as City & Guilds Affinity, Council for Awards in Children’s Care and Education (CACHE), EDEXCEL etc. Qualifications are offered on 8 levels as shown in the table below. Level of qualification Equivalent to academic level Equivalent to occupational level Aimed at Entry Level Entry Level Certificate Entry Level Certificate Those deciding which area of work with children they wish to pursue Level 1 GCSE grade D–G Level 1 NVQ Those wanting awareness and understanding of basic principles and skills, often called ‘induction’ Level 2 GCSE grade A*–C Level 2 NVQ Those working with children ‘on the front line’ i.e. assistant level Level 3 A level; diploma Level 3 NVQ Those with more experience of working with children, those who work in more ‘specialist’ areas, alone, unsupervised or who ‘supervise’ others Level 4 Foundation Degree (The equivalent of year 1 of a degree course) Level 4 NVQ Managers, co-ordinators or specialist practitioners Level 5 Full Foundation Degree (The equivalent of year 2 of a degree course) Level 5 NVQ Senior positions within workplace Multi sites / services Level 6 Graduate BA (Hons) Senior positions in strategic policy roles, lead professionals. Level 7 Postgraduate; Masters MA Leaders, senior positions, integrated services, specialist professionals Level 8 Doctorate Ph D Research undertaken to achieve expert professional status 9 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service In the workplace – what are NVQs? National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are competence based qualifications that reflect the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively. They require an assessor to assess your performance, skills and knowledge in workplace conditions. Assessment is normally through on the job observation and questioning. Candidates produce evidence to prove they have the competence to meet NVQ standards. NVQs offer flexible roll on/roll off courses which are designed to be carried out whilst in the workplace or on a work placement. There are no age limits and no special entry requirements. An assessor may already be working with you to support and assess you as you work towards your qualification or alternatively, someone outside your workplace may visit. Assessors must be experienced in the area of work with children for which they are assessing and qualified in assessment (A1/A2 units). Through a training programme Colleges of higher education (HE / universities), colleges of further education (CFE) or a range of private training providers offer a variety of full time and part time courses. Assessment is undertaken at various points throughout courses on both your academic and your practical skills. Some qualifications focus on academic achievements, some on vocational understanding and some on the practical skills. Some look at all areas. Distance learning and part time courses Some training providers offer distance learning programmes (with tutor support). These can be undertaken: • Online • As flexi–learning (as stand alone or with tutor support) or • Supported by part time courses E-learning If you can use the internet, there are many courses that you can access at your own pace or when you are available. These are ‘online’ programmes. You can access the internet free of charge for 30 minutes a day at many local libraries. 10 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job roles There are many jobs within the sectors – pay may vary in different parts of the country as will length of training time required. Here are some of them, listed in alphabetical order. Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Advisory Teacher Pre-school 0–6 years (PSAT) A teacher who works with children with special educational needs, and their families, both in their homes and in pre-school settings. 0–18 years (SATS) Specialist Advisory Teachers for the visually impaired and those with physical difficulties or communication and interaction difficulties. 3-6 years (FSAT) Foundation Stage Advisory Teachers support all settings working in the foundation stage and advise on curriculum planning, assessment and observation. They provide training and support in early years settings. Statutory school age 5–18 years Primary and secondary subject and phase advisors in maintained settings. • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) • Mandatory qualifications are required for teaching children with visual or hearing impairment • Degree in education • Degree in any subject together with a Post Graduate Certificate in Education • Commitment to continuing professional development • Experience of working in foundation stage • Experience of working with families. Assessor (National Vocational Qualification) Someone who is qualified and experienced (occupationally competent) in childcare/early years/playwork who assesses people undergoing NVQ programmes in the workplace. The assessor needs to be occupationally competent in whatever field they are assessing. e.g youth work, play work or teaching assistants. • Assessor Awards A1/A2 (formerly D32/D33) • SWiS. The TDA is looking upon SWiS as being the key initial qualification for support staff and the model for all qualifications come 2010. To be a SWiS assessor you also need the A1 award with an expert witness providing the occupational competence • Qualified to the level equivalent or above the award they are assessing • Occupational competence in childcare, early years, playwork. • • • • • • • • • Child protection Paediatric first aid Health and safety Updating occupational competence Experience in training and development IT skills Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development Level 2 Maths and Literacy. 11 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 12 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Babysitter Someone who looks after children within the child’s own home on a casual basis. • There are no legal requirements for a babysitter. • • • • • • • • Child Care Inspector (Ofsted) Child Care Inspectors carry out Ofsted’s regulatory functions with regard to childminders, full day care, sessional day care, out of school care and crèches. They are home-based for administrative duties and work across a geographical area. The role involves a substantial amount of time spent with providers of childcare and involves travelling to and from settings. • Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills; able to work under pressure without close supervision, meeting deadlines and priorities • Experience and understanding of dealing with sensitive issues and handling confidential information • Ability to analyse information and present results clearly and concisely with good IT skills • Educated to degree standard • Enhanced disclosure check. • Experience of regulatory work in the sectors and knowledge of the relevant legislation • Experience of inspection work • Early Years Professional Status Children’s Centre Manager Sure Start Children’s Centres provide • NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, integrated multi-agency services to Learning and Development children under 5 and their families. They (minimum requirement) are a universal point of access for • Educated to degree standard integrated early years and childcare, family within the fields of childcare, support, health services, support into education, social work or health employment and links to other specialist • Proven experience of managing services. The manager will provide effective a team. leadership to the multi-agency team, working closely with the local authority, in delivering the Core Offer. References/known to the family Responsible Aged 16 + Childcare experience First aid qualification CRB disclosure check to be carried out Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development • Red Cross - Looking after other people’s children available through Red Cross or Devon Youth Service minimum age 14. • Experience in working with a range of organisations to deliver services to meet local need • Commitment to continuing professional development • Early Years Professional Status. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Children’s Nurse A qualified nurse who plans and delivers nursing care for children under the age of 16 in hospitals and other settings. Other tasks include assessing the patients’ nursing needs, considering their medical, emotional and family circumstances. Involves everything from nursing a sick newborn to an adolescent road traffic accident victim. Challenges are very varied, with family care and support a key element. • A nursing qualification, degree or diploma is essential for entry There are shortened training courses for graduates in life/social sciences degrees • Post-registration specialist practitioner programmes. • Child protection • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development. Community Care Worker Unqualified Social Workers who work in a childcare team with children and families. They contribute to making assessments of the needs of children and families • Child protection • Social services induction • Under 21s may require A levels and GCSE’s, but more mature candidates may be considered on experience. • Equal opportunities • NVQ Level 4 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) or equivalent • Commitment to continuing professional development. Crèche Manager Someone who manages the day-to-day running of a crèche. A crèche often runs alongside a training course, meeting, sports or shopping session. • Paediatric first aid • Child protection • Child Care and Education Diploma – CACHE (formerly NNEB), or • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development or equivalent • At least 2 years post qualifying day care experience. • CACHE Level 3 Management of Early Years Practice (modular programme) • Food hygiene • Health and safety • CACHE Level 3 Advanced Practice in Working with Babies (modular programme) • Equal opportunities • Level 4 Childcare qualification • 3 years day care experience (with 1 year in a senior position). 13 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 14 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Crèche Assistant Someone who works in a crèche under supervision. • Enjoys working with young children • At least half of all childcare staff must be qualified to NVQ Level 2 or equivalent. • • • • • Day Nursery Manager A qualified person who organises the day-to-day running of the nursery; manages staff and any students on placement; liaises with parents and professionals and often manages the financial and legal aspects of the nursery. • Childcare and Education Diploma – CACHE (formerly NNEB) or • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development or • National Diploma in Early Years – Edexcel (formerly BTEC Childhood Studies) • At least 2 years post qualifying day care experience • Paediatric first aid • Child protection. • CACHE Level 3 Management of Early Years Practice (modular programme) • Food hygiene • Managerial training at Level 4 • IT skills • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage) • 3 years day care experience (with 1 year in a senior position) • Degree in Childcare • Early Years Professional Status. Working with babies and under 3s Crèche Assistant course Child protection Paediatric first aid CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Childcare and Education or equivalent • NVQ Level 2 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • CACHE Level 2 Certificate of Pre-school Practice • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Early Years Practitioner A qualified person working with early years who is responsible for the daily needs of the children in their care. • Childcare and Education Diploma – CACHE (formerly NNEB) or • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development or • National Diploma in Early Years – Edexcel (formerly BTEC Childhood Studies) • Experience of working with young children • NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage) • Paediatric First Aid • Health and safety. Early Years Professional A graduate with considerable experience working with 0-5 year olds, who has achieved Early Years Professional Status. Responsible for leading, planning and implementing activities linked to the Early Years Foundation Stage within an early years setting. • Degree (any subject) • Early Years Professional Status (training pathways ranging from 3-18 months, depending upon experience) • Mentoring skills • Quality Improvement Programmes • Leadership and management training • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). Early Years Teacher A qualified teacher with an early years specialism, working with children aged 3-7 years, usually within a school, pre-school, nursery or children’s centre. • Degree in Early Years Education • Degree with Post Graduate Certificate of Education • Qualified Teacher Status. • Post graduate early years specialisation • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 5 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage) Education Welfare Officer (EWO) EWOs deal with irregular attendance or absence from school. Absences are investigated and initiatives developed to encourage and promote regular attendance. They refer cases to other statutory or voluntary agencies as appropriate, write reports and prepare evidence for legal action. EWOs provide information and advice to parents, teachers, employers and children regarding regulations. • High standard of general education, usually to degree level • Experience in education welfare, education-based youth services or social services preferred. • Qualification in education welfare, youth work, social work or teaching • Appropriate further education training • IT skills • Child protection • Commitment to continuing professional development • Equal opportunities. 15 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 16 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Educational Psychologist (EP) Being both qualified and experienced, EPs help to identify and work with children who have difficulties with learning or behaviour. They support schools in raising achievement and school effectiveness. EPs work with parents to help resolve their children’s difficulties – both at home and at school. They also provide training, undertake research and contribute psychological advice. • British Psychological Society accredited psychology degree • Degree in Education • Degree in any subject together with a Post Graduate Certificate in Education • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) • Masters Degree in Educational Psychology. • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 5 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). Family Centre Manager/ Deputy Manager Manages family centre and staff who provide care and support for families. Liaise with social services, childcare teams and health visitors. At least one of the following: • Social work qualification • Teaching certificate/diploma/ degree • NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Management qualification Requirements vary depending on whether in statutory or voluntary sector. • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). Family Support Worker May work with groups of families or on a one-to-one basis with a family. Provides play opportunities or childorientated group work. Families are referred by social services or a Health Visitor. • Child protection (Foundation and Advanced) • Other requirements vary depending on whether in statutory or voluntary sector. • NVQ Level 2 Children’s Care, Learning and Development. • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 5 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage) • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Foster Carer Someone who provides a home within their own family for a child who is the responsibility of the local authority. • Registered by social services • Generally an induction course such as ‘Skills to Foster’. • NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) • Child protection • Paediatric first aid • Behaviour management • Food hygiene • Health and safety • HIV/AIDS awareness • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development. Health Needs Co-ordinator Leads a team of paediatricians and nurses that provides dedicated first line health provision for children and young people. • Educated to degree level • Registered and experienced nurse • Extensive experience and knowledge of the physical, emotional and mental health needs of children and young people. • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development. Health Visitor A registered nurse or midwife with special training in assessment of health needs. Their primary role is to promote health and prevent disease in all age groups. Activities include providing advice, searching out health needs and mobilising resources to address such needs; carrying out developmental screening of children and providing health education programmes. • Registered and experienced Nurse or Midwife • Degree in Health Visiting is normally taken after at least 1 year’s experience as a Registered Nurse or Midwife. • • • • Health Visitor’s Assistant In primary healthcare teams, individuals such as nursery nurses work alongside and under the supervision of health visitors to agreed protocols. • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development or equivalent. • Equal opportunities • Child protection • Commitment to continuing professional development • IT and clerical skills. Equal opportunities Child protection Health and safety Commitment to continuing professional development. 17 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 18 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Higher Level Teaching Assistant HLTAs compliment the professional work of teachers by taking responsibility for agreed learning activities under an agreed system of supervision. This may involve planning, preparing and delivering learning activities for individuals/groups or short term for whole classes. They may also be responsible for the management and development of a specialist area with the school and/or management of other teaching assistants. There are four grant funded routes to HLTA status. • GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths. • GCSE (Grades A-C) or a recognised equivalent in English and Mathematics • Training in relevant national strategies as appropriate, e.g. literacy, behaviour management • Specialist skills in relevant curriculum or learning area, e.g. English as an Additional Language, ICT • Child protection • Behaviour management • Child development – primary or secondary • Inclusion training if working with children with special educational needs • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 5 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage) • NVQ Level 3 Teaching Assistant • Training in relevant National Strategies as appropriate, e.g. literacy, behaviour management • Specialist skills in relevant curriculum or learning area, e.g. English as an Additional Language, ICT, SEN. Hospital Play Specialist A person who provides therapeutic play programmes for children of all ages in ward based playrooms, outpatients’ clinics, accident and emergency departments and intensive care units. They use play to prepare children for hospital procedures, support families under stress and contribute to clinical judgements through play-based observations of sick children. • Level 4 BTEC Professional Diploma in Specialised Play for Sick Children and Young People • Experience of working with children. • Registered with HPSET (Hospital Play Staff Education Trust). • Equal opportunities • Child protection • Commitment to continuing professional development. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Internal Verifier Someone who ensures consistency and quality of NVQ assessment through monitoring and sampling assessment practice; ensures the recording of assessment and verification activities meets awarding body requirements; provides guidance and support to Assessors. • V1 Unit (formerly D34) Internal Verifiers Award • NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Qualified Teacher or equivalent • HNC/HND Playwork or equivalent • Supervisory/managerial experience • Training and development experience. • SWiS. The TDA is looking upon SWiS as being the key initial qualification for support staff and the model for all qualifications come 2010. Level 4 is the minimum recommended level. • • • • • • • • Intervention Service Worker Member of a team of social services sessional workers who provide cover for permanent staff (when required) in children’s residential homes, children’s secure unit accommodation; or support carers/parents with ‘looked after children’ in the community. May focus on one-to-one work or in a centre. • Social services induction • Physical intervention. • Equal opportunities • Child protection • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Commitment to continuing professional development. Child protection Paediatric first aid Health and safety Ongoing occupational development Managerial training IT skills Equal opportunities Training and Development Lead Body (TDLB) training qualifications • Commitment to continuing professional development • Organisational skills. 19 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 20 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Learning Support Assistant Someone who works within a family centre or infant / junior / primary / secondary / special school supporting children / teaching staff in a variety of ways. Tasks include helpline with basic arithmetic and reading; providing extra support for non-English speakers or for those with learning difficulties. Posts are graded 1– 5; 1 being an unqualified position and 5 usually being an experienced, well-qualified person (who may work on a one-to-one basis with children with special needs). • No formal qualifications essential but ability to interact well with both individual and groups of children and to communicate clearly is an advantage • Qualifications become essential at higher grades as shown in the ‘Desirable training/qualifications’ column. • CACHE Level 3 Childcare and Education Diploma (formerly NNEB) • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Learning Support Certificate, City and Guilds 7321-01 • NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) • CACHE Level 3 Certificate of Professional Development in Work with Children and Young People • Certificate in Learning Support • NVQ Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant • CLANSA – Certificate in Literacy and Numeracy • Child protection • Paediatric first aid • HIV/Aids awareness • Special needs experience • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 5 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage) • GCSE (Grades A-C) in English and mathematics or a recognised equivalent. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Maternity Nurse Maternity nurses are not necessarily nurses. They are often very experienced nannies, who care for newborn babies in the family home and offer support to parents, carrying out duties such as bathing, changing and feeding, both during the day and night. Positions often occur in families with first babies or multiple births and tend to be short term – often for only three to four months. • Generally NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development or equivalent • Experience with newborns is essential. • • • • • • Paediatric first aid Health and safety Child protection Equal opportunities Medical nursing experience OCN Maternity Practitioner Award (Open College Network). Mealtime Assistant Someone who works within a school or other childcare provision, ensuring children’s safety and well-being during the lunch break. • No formal qualifications are required. • • • • Paediatric first aid Child protection Health and safety NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Midday Supervision Behaviour management Mealtime Assistants Induction Course Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development (average 5 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage) SWiS Level 2. • • • • • Mentor A mentor supports learning and development and may assist childcare settings to achieve a quality assurance scheme. • Training and development experience • Experience of working within the sector. • • • • • Facilitation skills Management training Equal opportunities Training and development Post Graduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring Practice • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). 21 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 22 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Midwife Midwives provide advice and support for families during the pre-conceptual, antenatal, intranatal and postnatal periods. They care for the newborn and provide health and parenting education. They work on a one-to-one basis but also within a team, liaising with other health professionals such as GPs, health visitors and social workers. Activities include diagnosing, monitoring and examining women in normal pregnancy; identifying high risk pregnancies and making referrals to doctors; supervising and assisting mothers in labour and monitoring the condition of the foetus; helping mothers to establish breastfeeding • Although this area of work is open to all graduates, a midwifery qualification such as a degree/ diploma is essential. (Registered nurses can do a shorter course) • HND entry to midwifery training is possible but applicants must have five GCSEs including English Language and Science (grade A-C) • Pre-entry experience is not needed although experience of care work may improve your chances of being accepted on a shortened training course • Mature candidates with no formal academic qualifications but with relevant experience and skills can join an Access to Higher Education course • Equal opportunities • Maintenance of a professional portfolio, with evidence of development, is required by the rules of the United Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (UKCC) • Commitment to continuing professional development. Montessori Early Years Teacher Montessori qualified early years practitioner, working usually in a Montessori or other early years setting. Montessori is a holistic approach that educates children physically, intellectually, socially and emotionally. • International Diploma in Montessori Pedagogy. • • • • Equal opportunities Anti-discriminatory practice Child protection Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Nanny Someone who provides childcare within a family’s own home which can fit in with employer’s working hours. This post can be a live-in or live-out position. • There are no legal requirements for a person applying to work as a Nanny. • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • CACHE Childcare & Education Certificate (formerly NNEB) • Child protection • Paediatric first aid • CRB disclosure form to be completed • Food hygiene • Health and safety • Full driving licence • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development. Nursery Assistant Someone working under supervision, usually in a day nursery. • At least half of all childcare staff must be qualified to NVQ Level 2 or equivalent appropriate for the care and development of children. • NVQ Level 2 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • CACHE Level 3 Childcare and Education Diploma (formerly NNEB) • Certificate in Pre-school Practice • Child protection • Paediatric first aid • Food hygiene • Health and safety • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in the foundation stage). 23 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 24 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Nursery Nurse or Nursery Practitioner Someone who works in a day nursery or school with responsibility for a group of children under overall management of the Nursery Manager. • CACHE Level 3 Childcare and Education Diploma (formerly NNEB) • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Edexcel BTEC National Diploma in Early Years (formerly BTEC Childhood Studies) or equivalent. • • • • • • • Nursery Teacher Early years / nursery teachers foster and develop the abilities, social skills and understanding of children aged 3-5 years old. They focus on optimum child development and preparation for a successful transition to primary school education. • A degree in education • A degree in any subject together with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, with an early years specialism • Qualified Teacher Status. • • • • • • Outreach Worker Provides intensive intervention to prevent young people entering the care system. Works alongside Family Centre and Support Workers, and liaises with professionals. • NVQ Level 3 Childcare, Early Years or Playwork qualification • CACHE Level 3 Childcare and Education Diploma (formerly NNEB) • NVQ Level 3 Youth Work • NVQ Level 3 Community Development Work. • Computer literacy • Child protection • Effective communication and negotiating skills • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development. Paediatric first aid Food hygiene Health and safety Child protection Behaviour management Equal opportunities Supervisory training or qualifications at levels 3/4 • CACHE Specialist modules • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). Child protection Paediatric first aid Health and safety Equal opportunities Good communication skills An understanding of the needs and feelings of children • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Parent Educator/Trainer Facilities training for Parent Educators, • TWP (Training for Work with to deliver parenting education to Parents) core curriculum and TPE practitioners, and parenting programmes (Training Parent Educators), to parents and carers, in line with, the accredited qualifications. requirements of the National Occupational Standards. • Evidence of experience in working with parents and families • Knowledge of counselling and listening skills • Experience of Adult learning or teaching • Commitment to inclusion. Parenting and Family Support Worker Parenting support my be offered in a variety of settings to assist with the development of positive relationships between parents and children, aiming to facilitate increased awareness, skill and communication in areas of parenting which are identified as causing difficulties. • Qualification in TWP or working towards the National Occupational Standards, which are the current benchmark for quality assurance in parenting services • Parenting Facilitator training • Good listening skills • Training in specific parenting and/ or community building programmes Parenting programme Facilitator from voluntary independent or statutory sector Facilitator of specific parenting programmes or courses for parents and carers, often working with parents referred by agencies because their children are experiencing particular behavioural difficulties. This role can also include 1 to 1 parent coaching, which involves facilitating individual interventions with parents in need of support and guidance. • TWP (Training for Work with Parents), OCN or equivalent, accredited modules aligned to National Occupational Standards for Parenting Practitioners as recommended by the National Parenting Academy. • Experience working with parents and families • Counselling/coaching experience • Empathy • Excellent communication skills • Ability to retain independent stance. Personal Advisor (Connexions) Someone who provides guidance and support for young people aged 13-19 years. The work involves both the provision of basic information, advice and guidance and more substantial one-to-one support for vulnerable young people. • Fully qualified personal advisors must have a relevant Level 4 qualification • Diploma for Connexions Personal Advisors. • • • • • Child protection Paediatric first aid Health and safety Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development. 25 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 26 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Playwork Assistant Someone working in a before and/or after school club, holiday play scheme or adventure playground, usually for 4-14 year olds. Playworkers are also sometimes employed in health settings and family or children’s centres. • At least half of all staff must be qualified to NVQ Level 2 or equivalent. • NVQ Level 2 Playwork • CACHE Certificate in Playwork (formerly ‘Take 10 for Play’) • CACHE ‘Take 5 for Play’ • Paediatric first aid • Food hygiene • Health and safety • Commitment to continuing professional development. Playwork Leader Playwork leaders are responsible for managing a team of staff and for the operational development of a before and/or after school club, holiday play scheme or adventure playground, usually for 4-14 year olds. Playworkers are also sometimes employed in health settings and family or children’s centres. • NVQ Level 3 Playwork • CACHE Diploma in Playwork (formerly “Take 10 More”). • • • • • • • • • Playgroup / Pre-school Assistant Someone who works within a playgroup/ preschool, usually on a part time basis, working under the supervision of the Playgroup / Preschool Leader. • At least half of all childcare staff must be qualified to NVQ Level 2 or equivalent appropriate for the care and development of children. • • • • • Child protection Paediatric first aid Behaviour management Food hygiene Health and safety Equal opportunities ’Play Toolkit’ series ’Everyone Can Play’ Commitment to continuing professional development. Child protection Food hygiene Health and safety Certificate in Pre-school Practice NVQ Level 2 Children’s Care, Learning and Development • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Playgroup / Pre-school Leader Playgroup leaders are responsible for managing a team of staff and for the operational development of the playgroup/pre-school. • NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development or equivalent • CACHE Diploma in Pre-school Practice. • • • • • Police Youth Intervention Officer To co-ordinate and deliver specialist, targeted interventions and services so that offending or becoming a victim by children and young people can be prevented. To work with schools and Educational Welfare Officers to improve pupil attendance and behaviour. Promote Restorative Justice interventions. Act as a “Specialist Problem Solver” by providing advice and guidance to partner agencies. • Police Office • • • • • • Paediatric first aid Child protection Food hygiene Health and safety Level 4 qualification in childcare, early years or management (e.g. NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development) • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). Youth Intervention Officers’ Course Restorative Justice trained Problem solving techniques trained CPT Domestic Violence Protective Behaviours trained 27 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 28 Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Portage Worker ‘Portage’ is an internationally recognised early intervention scheme for children under 5 with special needs. The ‘Portage’ home visitor works in the child’s home and in partnership with the family to support the development of their pre-school child with significant physical and /or learning difficulties. The ‘Portage’ support worker works with and reports to a ‘Portage’ Pre-school Advisory Teacher in order to carry out and support Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for individual children within the home. The plans result from formal assessment and aim to support children’s development. • The National Portage Association requires all ‘Portage’ home visitors to have completed the 3 day Basic Portage Workshop and to be an experienced early years worker. There are no statutory training and qualification requirements. • Experience of working with children under 5 years together with the necessary personal qualities • Health and safety • Child development • Equal opportunities • Inclusion training • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). Probationary Personal Advisor (Connexions) Someone with no qualifications but who has experience as a personal advisor providing guidance and support for young people aged 13-19 years. The work involves both the provision of basic information, advice and guidance and more substantial one-to-one support for vulnerable young people. • Relevant Level 3 qualification e.g. NVQ Level 3 in Advice and Guidance • Diploma for Connexions Personal Advisors. • Level 4 qualification e.g. NVQ Level 4 in Advice and Guidance • Diploma for Connexions Personal Advisors • Child protection • Paediatric first aid • Health and safety • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development. Project Worker There are many important government initiatives such as ‘Sure Start’ and ‘Children’s Fund’ supporting projects that need a variety of workers. • Relevant qualifications specific to job • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Registered Childminder A person aged 18 or over who has been registered with their appropriate authority to look after one or more children under the age of 8 for more than a total of two hours a day in the childminder’s own home for reward. Childminders work on a self-employed basis. • CRB disclosure form to be completed by all persons 16 or over living or regularly present in the household • OFSTED vettings to be completed • Paediatric first aid • Foundation Childminding course (within 6 months of registration) A ‘Start Up’ Grant may be available to assist with costs for those wishing to become childminders – for further information, and to see whether you qualify, contact Devon Childminding Association. • • • • • Social Care Worker Social care workers provide people with the practical support and help needed in day-to-day living, helping them overcome physical or psychological problems. • None required. • Level 2 NVQ Health and Social Care. Social Worker Social workers often work with people experiencing crisis or people who are socially excluded. Their aim is to provide support to enable people to help themselves. Qualified Social Workers are often supported by Social Work Assistants. They also work closely with other health and social care staff. • A degree in social work • All Social Workers must be registered with the General Social Care Council (GSCC) • Masters degree in Social Work • Post Qualifying Award in Social Work (PQSW) • Advanced Award in Social Work (AASW) The GSCC is likely to launch a revised Post Qualifying framework in Sept 07 • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days learning per year if working in foundation stage). Child protection Food hygiene Health and safety Equal opportunities NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development or equivalent • Accredited childminding programme • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 4 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). 29 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Special Educational Needs SENCOs have an interest and enthusiasm Co-ordinator (SENCO) in for special educational needs. They are a non-maintained setting responsible for ensuring their setting • An interest in special educational needs. • NVQ Level 3 Teaching Assistant • Equal opportunities and inclusion training • Inclusion: SENCO Code of Practice • Early Years and Childcare Service SENCO induction • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 3 days related learning per year) prioritising Area SENCO training. Special Educational Needs A qualified and experienced teacher with Co-ordinator (SENCO) in an interest and qualifications in Special a maintained school Educational Needs. SENCOs have • A degree in education • A degree in any subject together with a Post Graduate Certificate in Education • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) • Excellent teaching skills and experience. • Post graduate qualification in special educational needs • Career progression is achieved through middle and senior management responsibility and advanced teacher status. Special Educational Needs Most work in mainstream schools, but can Teacher also work in special schools. They may • A degree in education • A degree in any subject together with a Post Graduate Certificate in Education • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) • Mandatory qualifications are required for teaching children with visual or hearing impairment • Excellent teaching skills and usually at least 2 years teaching experience • Child protection. • Post graduate qualification in special educational needs • Career progression is achieved through middle and senior management responsibility and advanced teacher status. follows the requirements of the nursery education grant with regard to The Code of Practice, and are in regular contact with their Area SENCO. They work collaboratively with ‘outside’ agencies (Health, Education and Social Services). responsibility for managing the effective delivery of the education psychology service, learning support, behaviour support, SEN assessment and administration, and parental support. A SENCO may be a member of staff of a school who has responsibility for co-ordinating SEN provision in that school. In a small school, the headteacher or deputy may take on this role. In larger schools there may be an SEN co-ordinating team. work with children who are likely to have a statement of educational need, who may have emotional and behavioural, communication, sensory or learning difficulties. 30 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Teacher A qualified teacher, working with children of school age, usually within a primary or secondary school • Degree in Education • Degree with Post Graduate Certificate of Education • Qualified Teacher Status • SCITT • Equal opportunities • Commitment to continuing professional development (average 5 days related learning per year if working in foundation stage). Teaching Assistant Someone who usually works in a primary or secondary classroom providing different levels of support to individuals, small groups or with whole classes. Posts are graded at Scales 2-5 recognising different levels of responsibility and autonomy. • Good levels of literacy and numeracy • Ability to interact well with groups of children and on a one-to-one basis. NVQs are now accepted as a possible route into teaching. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Child protection Paediatric first aid Behaviour management NVQ Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant City & Guilds Certificate in Learning Support Induction Training for Teaching Assistants – primary or secondary Child development – primary or secondary Inclusion training if working with children with special educational needs Equal opportunities Meet Higher Level Teaching Assistant standards GCSE Maths & English (or equivalent) Teaching Assisting Foundation Degree BTEC Level 2 Teaching Assisting. Maths and English qualification being increasingly sought (not yet essential - though could be in future). 31 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Toy Library Worker Someone who runs, supports and develops a toy library. • There are no formal training or qualification requirements. Please see ‘Desirable training/ qualifications’ column for The National Association of Toy and Leisure Libraries (NATLL) and Early Years and Childcare Service recommendations. • • • • • • • • • • 32 Child protection Paediatric first aid Childcare or play experience Introduction to Toy Libraries CACHE Certificate of Professional Development in work with Children and Young People – Unit 16 (Supporting Children and Families in Toy Libraries) Quality Assurance in toy libraries Using a database in your toy library IT skills Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development Volunteer Helper Someone who helps within an early years setting in a variety of ways on an unpaid basis. Examples include running a playgroup/pre-school; helping in a school and volunteering in a hospital. • No formal qualifications required. • • • • Child protection Paediatric first aid Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development. Youth Support Worker A person in a youth centre or youth project assisting the lead, often a professionally qualified youth worker, to deliver the work undertaken with young people. • Formal qualifications are not always required and there can be local training provided to meet minimum criteria. • • • • Child protection NVQ Level 2 or 3 Youth Work Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service Youth Worker Someone involved with young people (aged 11–25) in a wide variety of settings – youth clubs, youth and community projects, health initiatives e.g. teenage pregnancy/drugs work, schools and colleges, or street-based projects. Working to employer’s policy, they aim to redress inequalities and empower individuals to take action on issues affecting their lives including health, education, unemployment and the environment. Core/priority age range for youth work is 13–19 years, with an emphasis on preventing or addressing social and educational exclusion. Information and advice work is important when working with adolescents and young adults. There are growing links with Connexions, youth offending teams and other agencies. • NVQ 2 for Assistant Youth Support Worker and NVQ 3 for Youth Support Worker, Senior Youth Support Worker and Youth Support Worker in charge • Full time workers must be JNC (Joint Negotiating Committee) qualified (minimum 2 year diploma – is now available part time and by distance learning) • Dip HE in Youth Work • Foundation Degree in Youth Work or youth and community work/ studies. • Vocational related qualification (VRQ) or NVQ Level 2 Youth Work • First aid • Child protection • Equal opportunities • Health and safety • Commitment to continuing professional development. Youth Worker (Street Based) A Youth Support Worker or a professional grade Youth Worker working in / or from mobile units or working in outdoor settings where young people choose to congregate e.g. parks / streets / bus stops. See Youth Support Worker and Youth Worker entry See Youth Support Worker and Youth Worker entry Youth Support Worker (various levels available) Someone working in a youth centre or youth project supporting or delivering work undertaken with young people. Work is usually informal education but will provide planned, purposeful and progressive opportunities for young people’s personal and social development. • Local Education Authority workers or projects funded by the LEA will be required to undergo induction, introductory you work training and either level 2 or 3 NVQ in youth work - depending on grade and role of post. • • • • Child protection Health and Safety Equal opportunities Commitment to continuing professional development. 33 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Job title Brief description of job Essential training/qualifications as recommended by OFSTED or other regulatory body Youth Worker (professional grade) Someone managing a youth centre or • A JNC youth & community diploma youth project and delivering programmes (degree only from 2010) to extend opportunities for development, enhance life chances, promote healthy life styles and provide directly or indirectly, support at times of change or crisis. There are many qualifications available at each level, a selection of which are listed on the following pages. The Qualification and Curriculum Authority (QCA) website provides more (www.qca.org.uk). There are also various non-accredited courses that you can take which will contribute to your own personal and professional development in the field of early years, childcare and playwork. Many examples of these can be found in our Early Years and Childcare Service Workforce Development Directory, and also our Childcare Careers and Qualifications Guide. Visit our website at www.traintoworkwithchildrenindevon.org.uk for further information, or phone the recruitment helpline on 0800 056 3666. 34 Desirable training/ qualifications in line with good practice and recommended by Early Years and Childcare Service • • • • • Child protection Health and Safety Equal opportunities Specialist training according to role Commitment to continuing professional development. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Literacy and Numeracy – Skills for Life High standards of literacy and numeracy are required for most career opportunities working with children and young people, especially for those jobs which are directly involved in children’s learning and development. The details below outline some of the ways in which you can brush up on these skills, and who to seek advice from. Learndirect courses are flexible and tailored to meet each individual’s needs. Courses use the latest online learning technologies and can be studied either at the library with tutor support or at home with online support, or even a mixture of the two. The English Level 1and Maths Level 1 courses are broken into bite sized chunks in order for you to learn at your own pace. English National Qualification The subject areas include: Speaking and Listening, Writing and Reading, with supplementary courses in Spelling and Grammar. At the end of the course participants can take the National Certificate in Adult Literacy Level 1. Maths National Qualification The subject areas include: Numbers, Measuring Shape and Space, Handling Data, Fractions, Decimals and Percentages. Entry Level/Target Audience Skills assessment will be undertaken. Accreditation/Qualification OCR Duration 20-25 hours approximately. Learning is flexible and can be started at any time. 35 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 1 National Test in Adult Literacy and Numeracy The National Qualifications are 40-question multiple choice tests. These can be taken online where an immediate result can be given or on paper where results will be sent back in two weeks. These tests are taken in the Centre in a comfortable environment and can be taken on a weekly basis. Fast track days occur on Fridays where it is possible to take an assessment, a practice test and the National test. Entry Level/Target Audience Open to anyone. Accreditation/Qualification OCR Duration 1 hour for English 1 hour 15 minutes for Maths For more information about these and other related courses, please contact Learndirect on 0800 101 901 or go online at www.learndirect.co.uk 36 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 1 Introductory courses and qualifications Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings CACHE Foundation Award in Caring for Children Mainly 16–19 years considering a career in childcare None 1 year 350 hours, including 90 hours of work experience Unit assessment (multiple choice) CACHE Certificate in Unqualified assistants Childcare and in a range of settings Education. under supervision NVQ Level 2 Children’s Care, Learning and Development Getting Started in a Pre-school Setting Those new to pre-school work None 20 hours / 10 weeks Assessment through 5 short tasks Certificate in Those starting or Pre-school Practice. wishing to work in a NVQ Level 2 Children’s pre-school setting Care Learning and Development BTEC Introductory Certificate/Diploma in Health and Social Care 14+ years 2 GSCE’s grade D/E or Entry Level 3 programme 1 year Coursework and practical projects BTEC First Certificate/ Diploma in Health and Social Care Childcare and health settings at unqualified status Take 5 For Play Those with little or no experience in playwork None 15 hours - tutor-led 10 hours - visits to different play settings Reflective diary kept during visits to play settings NVQ Level 2 Playwork or Certificate in Playwork Out of school clubs/ holiday playschemes 37 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 2 Qualifications 38 Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings NVQ Level 2 Children’s Care, Learning and Development All None Flexible roll on/off. Can attend part time course if required Normally 1 year Designed to be carried out whilst in employment. Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development Other Level 3 Qualifications Assistant in a nursery, pre-school, playgroup, crèche or school. Nanny CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Childcare and Education Mainly 16 –19 years 4 GCSE grades D/E, including English Language 550 hours, including practical work / 1 year full-time Portfolio of work, assignment, multiple choice question paper and personal development profile CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education. Other Level 3 Qualifications Assistant in a nursery, pre-school, playgroup, crèche or school. Nanny CACHE Certificate in Pre-school Practice Anyone interested in working in a pre-school None 240 hours part time and practical work placement Unit assessment CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Pre-school Practice Assistant at a pre-school NVQ Level 2 for Teaching Assistants All staff who work in classrooms supporting the learning process Classroom experience Flexible roll on/ off. Can attend part time if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 3 for Teaching Assistants SWiS Assistant in a primary or secondary school NVQ Level 2 Advice and Guidance People wanting to None work in advice roles Flexible roll on/ off. Can attend part time if required Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 3 Advice and Guidance Trainee personal advisor NVQ Level 2 Playwork Anyone working in the 4–16 years age range Flexible roll on/off. Can attend part time course if required Normally 1 year Designed to be carried out whilst in employment. Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 3 Playwork. Playworkers in a range Other Level 3 of out of school clubs, qualifications holiday clubs, youth clubs, family and children’s centres None but must have a placement A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings NVQ Level 2 Health and Social Care 16+ None Normally 1 year Designed to be carried out whilst in employment. Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) Childcare and health settings BTEC First Diploma in Health and Social Care 16+ None Normally 1 year Designed to be carried out whilst in employment. Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) Childcare and health settings BTEC First Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development 16+ None Normally 1 year Designed to be carried out whilst in employment. Portfolio and practical work BTEC National Diploma in Early Years NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning and Development Assistant in a nursery, pre-school, playgroup, crèche or school. Nanny City & Guilds Progression Award in Early Years Care and Education All None 1 year part time 180 hours plus 120 hours practical experience Portfolio and set assignment Provides underpinning Variety of early years knowledge fort NVQ and / or childcare Level 2 Children’s Care, Learning and Development City & Guilds Certificate in Learning Support Anyone wishing to work with children, young people and adults with special needs in schools or similar environments and to help with basic learning skills No academic entry requirements but should be in paid or voluntary work supporting groups or individuals 1 year part time The course consists of three modules including work experience City & Guilds Level 3 Introduction to Delivering Learning More specialised courses, e.g. British Sign Language and Makaton Schools and special schools 39 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 40 Course Target group Entry requirement Introductory Youth Work Training 16+ NVQ Level 2 Youth Work Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings Must be 30 hours part time working or volunteering in 13 to 19’s youth work setting Workbook and interview NVQ 2 or 3 in Youth Work Youth clubs and projects 16+ None Normally 1 year Designed to be carried out whilst in employment. Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 3 Youth Work Youth clubs and projects NCFE Certificate in Midday Supervision Midday Supervisors 18 years and above and enjoy working with children 10 -15 weeks part time (30 hours) Keep a diary and be observed in the workplace Other school-based employment or higher level qualifications Midday Supervisor in a school Certificate in Playwork Volunteers and staff working with 4–16 year olds in their leisure time Over 16 years old with at least 50 hours playwork experience 40 hours classroombased learning and 40–60 hours of home study One internally marked assignment plus one externally marked assignment NVQ Level 3 Playwork or other Level 3 Playwork qualification Out of school clubs, holiday clubs, adventure playgrounds and family or children’s centres A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 3 Qualifications Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings NVQ Level 3 Children’s Care, Learning & Development 16 years and over None Flexible roll on /off Can attend part time course if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 4 Children’s As above Care, Learning and Development Foundation Degree (Early Years) CACHE Diploma in 16 years and over Childcare and Education (formerly NNEB) Nationally recognised qualification for day care settings for 0 – 8 year olds None 2 years full time including work placement Module assessment 3 short answer papers NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development Nursing Diploma (with English and Maths GCSE A-C) Qualified Nanny Nursery Nurse in a primary school Work with disabled children in a range of settings Health Visitor’s Assistant Playleader attached to a family centre or children’s centre Hospital work in a children’s ward and/or baby units NVQ 3 Playwork 16 years and over Those who supervise other staff Experienced playworker in a playwork setting Flexible roll on/off Can attend part time course if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work Advanced Certificate/ Diploma in Playwork Foundation Degree (Early Years) or Playwork Out of school clubs, holiday clubs, adventure playgrounds, family and children’s centres BTEC National Diploma in Early Years 16 –18 years 4 GCSEs at C or 2 years full time above including Practical maths if placements progressing to teaching Coursework and exam NVQ Level 4 Children’s The same as the CACHE Care, Learning and Diploma in Childcare Development. and Education See also CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education. 41 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 42 Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Childminding Practice Childminders 18 years and above Introduction 12 hours, Developing Childminding Practice 60 hours, Extending Childminding Practice 60 hours A mixture of continual assessment and written assignments through the 3 courses BTEC Certificate / Diploma in Early Childhood Studies Self-employed as childminder in own home CACHE – Diploma in Playwork Experienced playworkers working in out of school settings Level 2 160 hours of guided equivalent learning and 120 At least 50 hours of home study hours playwork experience CACHE Diploma in Pre-school Practice 18 years and over People working in early years settings Previous childcare qualifications Working with children/families in a pre-school setting 4 terms plus 150 Individual placement hours assessment – 4 Three core units plus assignments 2 optional units gives a Level 3 qualification BTEC National Diploma in Health and Social Care (includes National Award and Certificate) 18 years and over 3 GCSEs at Grade C or above 2 years full time 3 assignments, Progress to Level 4 one of which is equivalent externally marked qualifications as above Unit assessment Out of school clubs, holiday clubs, adventure playgrounds, family and children’s centres The same as the CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education Professional Supervising role in a qualifications in range of childcare health and social and health work work NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) Foster carers and people working in children’s residential settings such as children’s homes or special schools Already caring for children and young people aged 8-18 years Flexible roll on/off Can attend part time course if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work Progress to higher awards in early years care, play or teaching e.g. NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development Residential settings, children’s secure unit, foster care, family support work, play or care settings with children with special needs, home environments NVQ Level 3 for Teaching Assistants All staff who work in classrooms supporting the learning process Classroom experience Flexible roll on/off Can attend part time if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work Assistant in a primary Higher Level Teaching Assistant or secondary school SWiS Foundation Degree for Teaching Assistants NVQ Level 3 Advice and Guidance 16 years and over People looking to work as a personal advisor Flexible roll on/off Can attend part time if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 4 Advice and Guidance Connexions Probationary Personal Advisor NVQ Level 3 Youth Work 16 years and over People looking to work with 11-25 year olds Flexible roll on/off Part time competency based so training available if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work Dip HE in Youth and Community Work Youth clubs and projects 43 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 4 Qualifications 44 Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings NVQ Level 4 Children’s Care, Learning and Development People qualified to Level 3 such as experienced early years childcare, education or play practitioners working at a senior level with children or children with their families Early years qualification at Level 3 plus relevant work experience Up to 2 years Flexible roll on/off Can attend part time course if required Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 4 Management Primary and early years education degree Foundation Degree (Early Years) Early years childcare, play, managerial and developmental posts Diploma in Higher Education (Dip HE) in Youth and Community Work Senior Youth Workers qualified to level 3 or equivalent and already in youth work Level 3 Youth Work or equivalent 2 years full time or part-time equivalent Range of delivery modes including formal teaching, distance learning and work-based learning Foundation Degree or BA (Hons) in Youth and Community Work or similar Youth & Community Diploma only available as a degree from 2010 Youth coordinator, trainer or development worker in larger settings or local authorities NVQ Level 4 Playwork People in a management, senior practitioner or quality and development role in the play sector Level 3 Playwork or similar plus relevant work experience Up to 2 years Flexible roll on/off Can attend part time course if required Direct observation in the workplace with assignments, professional discussions and witness testimonies Diploma in Higher Education in Playwork Playwork degree Manager of out of school clubs, holiday clubs, crèches, hospitals, family and children’s centres A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings (HND) Higher National Diploma in Playwork Qualified and experienced playworkers 18 years and over. At least 1 GCE ‘A’ level with supporting GCSEs at Grade C or above NVQ Level 3 or equivalent 2 years full time 3 years part time Practical workshops and assignments, work experience Diploma in Higher Education in Playwork Playwork degree Manager of out of school clubs, holiday clubs, crèches, hospitals, family and children’s centres NVQ Level 4 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) Specialist practitioner with extended skills, responsible for other workers NVQ Level 3 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People) or equivalent Supervision experience 18 – 24 months Designed to be carried out whilst in employment. Portfolio and practical work Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care Senior Healthcare or Care Home Assistant NVQ Level 4 Management Managers with more personal responsibility than a Level 3 supervisor NVQ Level 3 in Management Management experience 1 year Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work NVQ Level 5 Management Early years childcare, play, managerial and developmental posts NVQ Level 4 Advice and Guidance People wanting to NVQ Level 3 in 1 year work in an advisory Advice and capacity Guidance or equivalent with experience Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work Foundation Degree in Youth and Community Work Connexions Personal Advisor 45 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Course Target group Entry requirement Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings CACHE Level 4 Certificate in Managing Quality Standards in Children’s Services Experienced practitioners currently employed at a setting Level 3 60 hours (not all qualification within a classroom i.e. NVQ Level 3 situation) Children’s Care, Learning and Development Evaluation and practical work NVQ Level 4/5 Management Early years childcare, play, managerial and developmental posts International Diploma in Montessori Pedagogy Students wishing to NVQ Level 3 or 1 year plus 420 become teachers of above including hours work the Montessori a degree placement method experience Course work assessment, written exam, practical exam, workplace assessment Foundation Degree in Early Years NVQ Level 4/5 Management Primary and early years education degree Early years especially Montessori childcare, education, managerial and development posts Montessori Teacher Training Course Students wishing to Qualification become teachers of course open to the Montessori everyone method Twice weekly seminars, coursework, written and practical exams Foundation Degree (Early Years) or Playwork NVQ Level 4/5 Management Early years especially Montessori childcare, education, managerial and developmental posts Professional Diploma in Specialised Play for Sick Children and Young People A qualified person wishing to work in a health care setting such as a Hospital Play Specialist BTEC National 1 year part time, Diploma / 1 day per week Certificate in Nursery Nursing, Relevant Level 3 Practical and assignments BTEC HND in Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Young People Early Years degree Foundation Degree (Early Years) Children’s wards, outpatients, accident and emergency departments or children’s hospices In management, 6-12 months preferably with a relevant Level 3 or equivalent Designed to be carried out whilst in employment Portfolio and practical work Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care Management in social care and health settings NVQ Level 4 for Aspiring managers Managers in in residential Residential Childcare settings 46 Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) 1-1.25 academic years – approximately 4 terms A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 5 Qualifications Course Target group Entry requirement Foundation Degree in Early Years Early years, childcare and play practitioners Diploma in Higher Education (Dip HE) in Playwork Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings Proven recent 1-2 years study, qualified at NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in a related subject. All students will need to have considerable experience of working with children aged 3-11 years Range of delivery modes including formal teaching, distance learning, coaching and work-based learning BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies Early years childcare, play, managerial and developmental posts People in the playwork field wanting a Higher Education qualification 2 GCE A Levels 2 years full time NVQ Level 3/4 Playwork 120 UCAS tariff points Range of delivery BA (Hons) Playwork modes including or similar formal teaching, distance learning, coaching and work based learning Playwork coordinator, trainer or development worker in larger play settings or local authorities 18 years and over Trainee Assistant Practitioner Relevant NVQ 3 2 years full time or or significant part time equivalent experience Clinical competency assessments and portfolio based reflective work Social care and health settings Specialised Assistant Practitioner Social Work or Children’s Nursing degree 47 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service 48 Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings BTEC Higher National Diploma in Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Young People / Families 18 years and over Relevant BTEC Qualified to Level 3 National Experienced early Certificate or years childcare, Diploma education or play Level 3 or practitioners equivalent plus a minimum of 1 year’s recent and relevant work experience 2 years full time or 3 to 4 years part time 960 guided learning hours Assignments, case studies, practical exercises, presentations, portfolio evidence 2nd or 3rd year of a relevant degree depending on match of units Early years childcare, play, managerial and developmental posts Foundation Degree in Youth and Community Work 18 years and over wanting to work with or already working with young people aged 11-25 years Relevant NVQ 3 2 years full time or or equivalent part time equivalent Experience considered Range of delivery modes including formal teaching, distance learning and work-based learning BA (Hons) in Youth and Community Work Youth coordinator, trainer or development worker in larger settings or local authorities NVQ Level 5 Management Strategic managers NVQ Level 4 Management BA (Hons) Management Early years childcare, play, managerial and developmental posts Flexible roll on/off Designed to be Can attend part time carried out whilst course if required in employment Portfolio and practical work A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 6 Qualifications Course Target group Entry requirement BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies 18 years and over BA (Hons) Playwork 18 years and over 18 years and over Social Work Degree The General Social Care with experience of Council provides paid or unpaid funding for students social care work not funded by employers. The GSCC is responsible for the registering of all social workers Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings ‘A’ level/AS level 3 years full time or Vocational ‘A’ equivalent taken level. part time Non ‘A’ level qualifications also considered Mature applicants encouraged Assignments, projects, practical placements and exams PGCE Primary (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) can lead to Qualified Teacher Status Education, health care, social work, nursery management, playwork and community work 120 UCAS tariff 3 years full time points Distance Learning is possible Assignments, projects, practical placements and exams Graduate Diploma in Playwork Masters Degree in Play and Playwork is being developed Play Development Worker Play Officer / Trainer Specialist Play Worker in hospitals, social services or prisons 2 ‘A’ level 3 years full time passes Applicants will be expected to have had a certain amount of relevant experience and be expected to demonstrate their understanding of what social work involves Coursework assessment and work-based learning Post Qualifying Award in Social Work Advanced Award in Social Work The GSCC is likely to launch a revised post qualifying framework in September 2007 Statutory and voluntary sector employment opportunities within social services departments, child protection, management, family and children’s centres 49 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Course Target group Early Years Education 18 years and over Degree (BEd) 50 Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) 3 ‘A’ levels. 3 years full time Other Level 3 qualifications with negotiation and interview Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings Assignments, projects, practical placements and exams Post graduate studies Teaching a range of early years settings including maintained schools Professional Graduate Certificate in Education Early Years and Key Relevant degree 1 year full time Stage 1 educators GSCE Grades A*-C in English and Mathematics Enhanced CRB clearance Assignments, projects, practical placements and exams Post graduate studies Teaching a range of early years settings including maintained schools Qualified Teacher Status Graduates wishing to be teachers Relevant degree Satisfactory health check Enhanced CRB clearance Included within 1 year PGCE above Individuals must Post graduate studies show they meet 3 standards for teaching and pass skills tests in literacy, numeracy and ICT. Teaching a range of early years settings including maintained schools Early Years Professional Status Graduates who are working with children aged 0-5 A degree from any discipline, plus Grades A-C in Maths and English or recognised equivalents. Length of study will be determined by initial assessment of experience with 0-5 year olds. Study can vary from 3-18 months. Work placements, Teaching written and verbal assessments. Children’s centres and full day care settings, e.g. nurseries. A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings BA (Hons) Youth and 18 years and over Community Work 120 UCAS tariff 3 years full time. points Distance Learning is possible Assignments, projects, practical placements and exams Post Graduate Certificate / Diploma in Youth and Community Work Masters Degree Youth coordinator, trainer or development worker in larger settings or local authorities Degree in Children’s Nursing 3 ‘A’ level passes Practical placements, assignments, exams Range of healthrelated opportunities Hospitals and community health settings 18 years and over 3 years full time 51 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 7 Qualifications Course Target group Entry requirement Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings MA Early Childhood Studies Those in senior positions; specialist professionals Related degree or equivalent Level 6 course 2-5 years Assignments, case studies and dissertation Contribute to further development of research and policy making Manage and co-ordinate the work of a wide variety of early years practitioners National Professional Managers of integrated Qualification in Integrated Centre childcare centres Leadership Related degree or equivalent 1 year Assignments and supported research Research for Doctorate Children’s Centre manager Graduate Diploma in Playwork Graduates of other subjects who need a qualification to transfer into the playwork field Related degree or equivalent 140-180 UCAS tariff points Flexible - studied Assignments part time by distance projects, practical learning placements and exams Childcare / playwork research Play Development Worker/Coordinator Play Officer/Trainer Specialist Play Worker in hospitals, or social services MA Social Work Graduates in Social Work Social Work degree Relevant work experience and understanding of social work CRB enhanced disclosure 2 years full time Social Work research Social Worker, eligible for entry to the GSCC Register of Social Workers Related degree or by negotiation with university 10 days or equivalent Tutor lead Specialist professional in an early years setting Early years integrated settings Post Graduate Senior managers of early years settings Certificate in Leadership and Management in Early Childhood Settings 52 Assignments and exercises including portfolio of evidence and dissertation A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Course Target group Entry requirement MA Education Senior educators; specialist professionals MA Youth and Community Work Postgraduate / Masters Youth & Community Work Those in senior positions; specialist professionals Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings Related degree 1 year full time or equivalent Level 6 course with experience Essays and case studies Contribute to research or furthering educational career National Professional Qualification for Headteachers Senior positions within educational establishments or local educational authorities Related degree 1-2 years or equivalent Level 6 course with experience Assignments, case studies and dissertation Contribute to further development of research and policy making Manage and co-ordinate the work of a wide variety of youth projects 53 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Level 8 Qualifications 54 Course Target group Entry requirement PhD Childhood Studies Those in senior positions; specialist professionals PhD Education Those in senior positions within education Hours of study (may vary depending on place of study) Type of Assessment Progression opportunities Employment settings Honours degree, Varies usually upper second Combination of examinations and coursework Contribute to further development of research and policy making Manage and co-ordinate the work of a wide variety of early years practitioners Childcare Research Honours degree, 3-4 years full time usually upper Minimum 5 years second part time Combination of examinations and coursework Contribute to further development of research and policy making Educational establishments and Local Educational Authorities A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Advice and guidance Connexions Services Cornwall and Devon Connexions Cornwall and Devon provides independent impartial information, advice and guidance for all 13 – 19 year olds. Our purpose is to help engage all young people in learning and work. All young people have access to a Connexions Personal Adviser whether that is through school or colleges, Connexions centres or in youth and community groups. We provide information, advice and guidance about careers, education courses, training and jobs, and other issues facing young people e.g. health, benefits, housing, relationships. Connexions brings together other agencies and voluntary groups to plan coherent access to integrated services for young people. Connexions Cornwall and Devon Ltd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and vulnerable adults and expects all employees, and stakeholders to share this commitment. For more information visit www.connexions-cd.org.uk the local website, or www.connexions.gov.uk the national website. Connexions also has an extensive career guide on the website giving information on a wide variety of careers. The link can be found at www.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u and includes information on job descriptions, entry qualifications, training, pay and conditions etc. 55 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Next Step This is the local name of the Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) Partnership that covers Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It is their intention to ensure that everyone over the age of 20 has access to a free information and advice service delivered to nationally recognised standards through a co-ordinated network. To book an appointment, telephone 0845 850 5070. The promotion of Information, Advice and Guidance is a key element of the Government’s lifelong learning strategy which aims to widen the number of people who take part in education and training and to increase the skills of those in or returning to work. Next Step also has a website at www.nextstep-cds.org.uk that can help people make a change, learn something new or improve their skills. It includes a network of agencies that give friendly and expert advice to assist in finding out about learning and work opportunities in a particular area. 56 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Funding Apprenticeship schemes For 16–24 year olds (learner must start prior to 25th birthday), funding is available for employees to train and qualify. Training is offered for apprenticeships, which also contain Key Skills and Technical Certificate plus employment rights and responsibilities. If an employee is already employed and is 19 years and over, he or she is still eligible for funding. For further information and answers to your questions, please refer to the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) website: www.lsc.gov.uk or contact: Connexions Cornwall & Devon Telephone 0800 975 5111. Education Maintenance Allowance Aimed at encouraging16 –18 year olds to further their education. EMA is a weekly payment of £10, £20 or £30,depending on your household income. For further information refer to the website: www.direct.gov.uk/ema or telephone 080 810 16 2 19. New Deal options A government initiative helping people back to work. On New Deal, every candidate has a personal advisor as a point of contact throughout the whole programme. The personal advisor takes the time to understand each person’s experiences, interests and goals so that an individual plan can be prepared resulting in a suitable job being found. Various options are available. Some of these are listed on the following page. New Deal for Young People and New Deal 25 plus For those aged between 18 and 24 who have been claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance for six months or more. Employers receive a weekly subsidy of up to £60 for full time employees and £40 for part time employees. In addition, up to £750 is available to employers towards the cost of providing certified vocational training e.g. NVQ. Participants in the New Deal for 18 - 24s and 25+ receive £15 per week in addition to their benefits, if they are undertaking Work Based Learning. 57 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service New Deal 25 plus For those who are aged 25 or more who have been out of work and claiming Jobseekers’ Allowance for over 18 months. A weekly subsidy of up to £75 for a full time post or £50 for a part time post is paid for six months to the employer to encourage them to give a long term unemployed person the opportunity to gain valuable work experience. The employee receives the going rate for the job. A Work Trial is also available to employers to take on candidates for a period of up to three weeks at no cost. This offers a no-risk opportunity for both employer and employee. The recruit would still be paid benefits and receive travel and meal expenses paid by Jobcentre Plus. Employment on Trial gives the confidence to start a new job, even if the employee is not sure if it will work out, This is because it would not jeopardise any benefits if the employee left the job, as long as it had been given a fair try. Other New Deal options Including New Deal for Disabled People, New Deal 50 Plus, New Deal for Partners, New Deal for Lone Parents and New Deal for Musicians. If you have any questions about New Deal telephone 0845 606 2626 7.00am to 11.00pm, seven days a week. Alternatively visit their website: www.newdeal.gov.uk for further information. Learning and Skills Council (LSC) Funding is provided from the LSC via accredited providers for programmes leading to improved employability. In particular, the LSC funds Apprenticeships for students under the age of 25. Contact: Local Further Education or Community College. Alternatively visit their website: www.lsc.gov.uk Department for Education and Skills (DfES) Funding via local Early Years and Childcare Service. Contact: Early Years and Childcare Service 0800 056 36 66. Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA) Devon County Council has grant funding fromm the TDA to suppor tcertain types of training: Higher Level Teaching Assistants, SWiS, NVQ Assessor training. Contact: Devon Curriculum Services (DCS) 01392 385252. Alternatively visit their websie www.dcseducation.org/content.asp?did=3590 58 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Contacts Regulatory authorities Commission for Social Care Inspection St Nicholas Building, St Nicholas Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1NB Office for Standards in Education (OFSTED) Alexandra House, 33 Kingsway, London WC2B 6SE The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority 83 Piccadilly, London W1J 8QA Telephone 0191 233 3600 Website www.csci.org.uk Telephone 0845 6014771 (South West Region) Website www.ofsted.gov.uk Telephone 020 7509 5556 Website www.qca.org.uk Children’s Workforce Development Council 3rd Floor, Friends Provident House 13-14 South Parade Leeds LS1 5QS SkillsActive Castlewood House, 77-91 New Oxford Street London WC1A 1PX The Open University (OU) PO Box 197, Milton Keynes MK7 6BJ Telephone 0113 244 6311 Website www.cwdcouncil.org.uk Telephone 020 7632 2000 Website www.skillsactive.com Skills for Care Albion Court, 5 Albion Place, Leeds LS1 6JP Skills for Health 2nd Floor, Goldsmiths House, Broad Plain, Bristol BS2 0JP Training and Development Agency for Schools (TDA) 151 Buckingham Palace Road London SW1W 9SZ Telephone 0113 245 1716 Website www.skillsforcare.org.uk Telephone 0117 922 1155 Website www.skillsforhealth.org.uk Telephone 0870 4960 123 Website www.tda.gov.uk National training organisations Telephone 0845 300 6090 Website www.open.ac.uk 59 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service National childcare organisations National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Oak House, Woodvale Road, Brighouse, West Yorkshire HD6 4AB Telephone 0870 774 4244 Website www.ndna.org.uk Pre-school Learning Alliance (PLA) The Fitzpatrick Building 188 York Way London N7 9AD 4Children City Reach 5 Greenwich View Place London E14 9NN Telephone 020 7697 2500 Website www.pre-school.org.uk Telephone 020 7512 2112 Website www.4children.org.uk National Childminding Association (NCMA) 81 Tweedy Road, Bromley, Kent BR1 1TG Daycare Trust 21 St George’s Road, London SE1 6ES Telephone 0845 880 0044 Website www.ncma.org.uk Telephone 020 7840 3350 Website www.daycaretrust.org.uk National contacts British Association for Adoption and Fostering Saffron House, 6-10 Kirby Street London EC1N 8TS Adam Smith College St Brycedale Campus, St Brycedale Avenue, Kirkcaldy, Fife KY1 1EX Telephone 020 7421 2600 Website www.baaf.org.uk Telephone 01592 223400 Website www.adamsmith.ac.uk National Children’s Bureau 8 Wakley Street, London EC1V 7QE National Association of Toy and Leisure Libraries 68 Churchway, London NW1 1LT NCH for Children 85 Highbury Park, London N5 1UD Telephone 020 7843 6000 Website www.ncb.org.uk Telephone 020 7255 4600 Website www.natll.org.uk Telephone 0845 762 6579 Website www.nch.org.uk National Youth Agency Eastgate House, 19-23 Humberstone Road, Leicester LE5 3GJ Telephone: Switchboard 0116 242 7350 Email: [email protected] General Enquiries [email protected] 60 Montessori Education (MEUK) 21 Vineyard Hill, London SW19 7JL Telephone 020 8946 4433 Website www.montessorieducationuk.org Association of Police Authorities 15 Greycoat Place London SW1P 1BN Telephone: 020 7664 3096 Email: [email protected] Website: www.apa.police.uk/apa A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Local organisations Devon Association of Primary Headteachers Charlie Werner, DAPH Link Officer, DAPH Office, Ide First School, Ide, Exeter EX2 9RN Devon Social Services Foster Care Devon County Council, County Hall, Exeter EX2 4QD Voluntary Youth Services (Devon) YFC Centre, Retail Park Close, Marsh Barton Road, Exeter EX2 8LG Telephone 01392 410766 Telephone 01392 383808 Website www.devon.gov.uk/socserve/fostering Telephone 01392 250976 Website www.vysdevon.org.uk Devon Childminding Association 106 Milehouse Road, Stoke, Plymouth PL3 4DE DISC (Devon Information on Services for Children) Kingfisher House, Western Way, Exeter EX1 2DE Workers’ Educational Association Exeter Office, Bradninch Court, Castle Street Exeter EX4 3PL Telephone 01752 202059 Website www.devonca.org Telephone 0845 155 10 13 Website www.devon.gov.uk/disc Telephone 01392 490970 Website www.wea.org.uk Devon Curriculum Services (DCS) Great Moor House, Bittern Road, Sowton, Exeter EX2 7NL Devon Pre-school Learning Alliance Palace Gate Centre, 3 Palace Gate, Exeter EX1 1JA Youth Support Sun Court, Wolborough Street, Newton Abbot TQ12 1JJ Telephone 01392 385352 Website www.dcseducation.org Telephone 01392 435464 Website www.pre-school.org.uk/devon Telephone 01626 202828 Devon Intervention Services Brookhayes, Pilton Lane, Exeter EX1 3RA Early Years and Childcare Service Devon Early Years and Childcare Service Kingfisher House, Western Way, Exeter EX1 2DE Devon Youth Service Great Moor House, Bittern Road, Sowton, Exeter EX2 7NL Telephone 01392 462544 Website www.devon.gov.uk/index/cyps/youngpeople Telephone 0800 056 36 66 Website www.traintoworkwithchildrenindevon.org.uk Telephone: 01392 382049 61 A Careers Guide to Working with Children Early Years and Childcare Service Useful websites www.connexions-cd.org.uk Connexions – a free information and advice service for young people aged 13 –19 years www.doh.gov.uk Department of Health www.newdeal.gov.uk A government initiative helping people back to work. www.daycaretrust.org.uk National childcare charity www.cwdcouncil.org.uk Children’s Workforce Development Council www.nhscareers.nhs.uk NHS careers website www.devon.gov.uk/disc Devon Information on Services for Children providing local childcare information www.nextstep.org.uk Next Step – a free information, advice and guidance service for everyone over the age of 20 www.open.ac.uk The Open University www.devon.gov.uk/discplus Special needs information for Devon children and families www.gscc.org.uk General Social Care Council www.qca.org.uk Qualification Curriculum Authority www.devon.gov.uk/early_years_and_childcare Early Years and Childcare Service www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk Jobcentre Plus offers help and advice with finding jobs www.skillsactive.com The Sector Skills Council for Active Leisure and Learning www.dfes.gov.uk Department for Education and Skills www.learndirect.co.uk National Learning Centre www.skillsforcare.org.uk National Training Organisation for Personal Social Services www.lsc.gov.uk Learning Skills Council www.worktrain.gov.uk National jobs and learning website www.dcseducation.org Devon Curriculum Services 62 Children & Young People’s Services Workforce Strategy Team Kingfisher House Western Way Exeter EX1 2DE 0800 056 36 66 [email protected] Produced by Devon Design & Print. 01392 382164 JN121004 This is printed on recycled paper When you have finished with this document please help the environment by putting it in your recycle bin. 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