Start your career in childcare
Gemma - Social Work Apprentice
Gemma’s journey into childcare started young — as the eldest sibling in a big family, she says she naturally took on the “mum” role in play. After leaving school, she began studying childcare but paused her plans when she became a mum herself at 19.
Her passion for working with children never faded. After volunteering in schools and supporting friends with childcare, Gemma became a registered childminder. Over six years, she cared for more than 70 children, creating a warm, playful environment filled with beach walks, messy play, den building and picnics in the woods. She loved the freedom and creativity the role offered — and the joy of helping children thrive.
After her youngest son’s health needs changed, Gemma adapted her work to support him, showing her resilience and commitment. She later became a baby room leader, then deputy manager in a large nursery, gaining leadership experience but missing hands-on time with children.
In 2022, she returned to direct work as a lead SEND practitioner in a school nursery, supporting children with additional needs and their families. She learned Makaton sign language, created visual timetables and worked with agencies to help children communicate and feel safe.
Now a social work apprentice, Gemma is combining her childcare and early years experience with new skills to support families more widely. Her story shows how childcare can lead to a career full of creativity, compassion and purpose — and why no two days are ever the same.