Childcare jobs.

[yummyumm]

I used to be a registered Childminder (2 years ago) and I am also a mother of 2. I would really love to work with children again, but not in my own home, however all vacancies seem to require a minimum of NVQ level 2 to apply.

I don't have this, even though I was a childminder and passed all the checks to get approval to look after children unsupervised I still wouldn't be considered for a job in a Nursery/Creche/School.Would the experience that I do have account for anything?

[star-ling]

As the deputy manager of a day nursery, we employ people without qualifications but who have experience. You would be paid less than someone with qualifications but could benefit from a reduced price place for your child. This can be worth a lot of money each year if you work full time and also means you can keep an eye on your child. Most good day nurseries would allow you to do your NVQ training whilst you work. If you see an advertisement that interests you and they ask for qualifications, give them a ring and you may be surprised. Good nursery staff are in short supply and if you are willing to train, do not have criminal convictions that would affect your job and are willing to work hard for your NVQ, a lot of Nurseries would welcome you especially in view of your experience as a childminder.

[Hgrove]

A friend of mine spotted a brief mention in her child's playgroup newsletter which said they were looking for staff. She did not have any childcare qualifications but she enquired anyway. They told her they would have to wait and see if anybody qualified came forward, but no-one did, so she got the job. It has worked very well for her and she loves it now. So it may possible for you too.