Working in childcare is rewarding and challenging and requires a huge commitment. There is support available to help you along the way, and information to help show you what is involved and to help you get started.
There are all kinds of settings from childminders to day nurseries. They are run by private businesses, voluntary and community groups, schools, colleges and other employers. Opening times can be different in each setting; some are open all year, except weekends and bank holidays, while others are open only during school term times. And some will open early in the morning (7am or earlier) and can stay open until 7pm or later.
The DfE has an early years careers progression map. It is a tool for staff to plan their careers and for those interested in working in the sector to see the range of job roles and opportunities on offer.
The map provides detailed information about different early years job roles, entry points and progression routes. It is aimed at:
- anyone considering a career in the sector
- careers advisers
- Department for Work and Pensions work coaches
- early years practitioners who wish to progress their careers
- employers
- 2020 Portsmouth Childcare Sufficiency Assessment – This assessment provides an overview of childcare sufficiency in Portsmouth, looking at the current level of supply and demand of childcare across the city, before the COVID-19 pandemic.