worker in stockroom

Childcare and early years practitioner careers

Working as a volunteer

Voluntary work is often the best way to start a career as it allows you to get a feel for the work before you start; you will find out whether you would enjoy that kind of work or not. It is a great way to gain experience in different areas of work allowing you to make contacts which may help build opportunities in your future career.

Voluntary work is very useful to put on your CV as it shows employers that you have a positive approach to developing your skills and gaining experience. Childcare employers will specify in job adverts that candidates will need previous experience of working in a childcare setting (whether in a voluntary or paid capacity).

If you want to work with children you could volunteer at a Nursery, Pre-School, Wraparound or Out of School Club or local Primary School. You would need to contact the setting beforehand to arrange voluntary work.

What would I do?

  • If you are volunteering in a Nursery/Pre-School you might be helping staff to provide care to young children and supporting their learning through play
  • In a Wraparound or Out of School Club, you might be helping the playworker with activities and games

You can volunteer for an hour or a few days a week, whatever suits. As a volunteer you would be always supervised.

What skills and experience do I need?

Enthusiasm is the key. An interest in the place you will be spending time in also helps. You will need to have a positive approach to learning new skills.

What qualifications do I need?

You do not need to hold any specific qualifications to volunteer. Volunteering is often a good way to access any training that the setting may offer, such as safeguarding children awareness training.

An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required if you intend to volunteer on a regular basis and have regular contact with children and young people. Volunteers will receive a DBS check free of charge.

Progression

As a volunteer you may be able to secure a permanent position within the setting, or the experience you have gained may help you when applying for jobs. You may also be able to access any training opportunities that the setting offers.