Early Childhood Careers

Welcome to the Early Years Workforce website - Here you can explore early childhood careers, funding pathways, and the most up-to-date professional development programmes in Cambridgeshire.

Early years practitioners and childcare professionals are specialists who care for the wellbeing, social, emotional, and educational development of children from birth to five years old. We provide secure and welcoming environments for children where they can develop and thrive. This happens in a range of settings, such as nurseries, preschools, children’s centres, schools, and childminders home-based provision.  Settings are required to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework set by the Department for Education for the learning, development, and care of children in both indoor and outdoor environments.

As an early years practitioner or childcare professional, you will have the opportunity to:

• Support and facilitate children’s learning through play and exploration.
• Observe and assess children’s progress whilst considering the next steps.
• Work in partnership with parents and carers to meet children’s needs whilst encouraging home learning.
• Promote children’s health, safety, and wellbeing.
• Develop skills and knowledge through training and qualifications.
• Join a community of practice with other professionals in the early years sector.

Whether you are looking for a new challenge, a career change, or a way to make a real difference in the lives of young children and their families, we are here to help you learn more about the exciting and rewarding career opportunities in early years.

If you are considering early years careers, we have different pathways for you to take and gain accredited qualifications. Upon entering the workforce trainees will be able to achieve a Level One qualification in early years settings. This could also lead to a Level Two Diploma for those interested in pursuing a career. Applicants will need to take a placement at one of our Trainee Hubs, which works in partnership with the Cambridgeshire Early Childhood Qualifications Centre (CECQC) with qualified skilled professionals waiting to mentor trainees through qualification training.

Childcare professionals can find out more about the benefits of being a childminder on our dedicated childminding page.

Practitioners currently working in the early childhood sector can access information and guidance on how to progress your career and enhance personal development and skills in the workplace that meets the EYFS statutory requirements with the CECQC. Check the qualifications page and the pathways you can follow.

Early Years Careers Pathway