Nursery World - Time for training

I was perturbed to read in the feature 'Put in the shade' (10 April) that it 'takes four years to train a teacher, while childcare staff can train on the job'. This is incorrect. Although there are some four-year teaching qualifications, a graduate of almost any field can obtain a PGCE in one year. While it is true that childcare staff may obtain an NVQ while working in a setting, other childcare courses are full-time college courses with workplace experience, in the same way that PGCE students undertake teaching practice.

This is incorrect. Although there are some four-year teaching qualifications, a graduate of almost any field can obtain a PGCE in one year. While it is true that childcare staff may obtain an NVQ while working in a setting, other childcare courses are full-time college courses with workplace experience, in the same way that PGCE students undertake teaching practice.

Within Worcestershire the Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership has representation at all levels from 'educationalists' - teachers, educational psychologists, primary inspectors and early years practitioners. They participate in task groups, strategy groups and partnership. We ensure that Foundation Stage training is offered to all practitioners regardless of their workplace and status to allow sharing of information and good practice.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included