Knowledge of how to create richly nurturing and stimulating experiences for children in these very early years and how this will help make the transition to school an easier one, is essential. A necessary skill is the ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with the pre-school leader and other staff, as well as communicating respectfully and co-operatively with parents and carers.
Responsibilities are usually the planning and implementing of play, learning and routine care activities for the day, which provide the children with the right level of challenge and enjoyment.
Patience, understanding and sensitivity to the individual needs of children are vital, along with the confidence to initiate action to support children when they are upset, feeling unsure or requiring additional practical support. Being able to use your own initiative is therefore essential.
It is preferred that you have at least a level 2 qualification in early years care, learning and development, and advisable to acquire further qualifications and training in the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Progression from this role could be to pre-school leader/supervisor, which would require at least a level 3 qualification. With plenty of experience and training, other employment opportunities could be as a day nursery manager, family support worker or pre-school development worker.
