Jobs boom in Childcare

A jobs boom in Childcare is bringing opportunities for young people who want to train for a career in the sector – with nurseries turning to apprentices to fill a skills shortage.

Cambridge’s expanding population means increased demand for childcare places but nurseries are struggling to find enough qualified staff to fill the need.

Apprenticeships are proving the solution, with 25 local nurseries currently offering vacancies in partnership with Cambridge Regional College – a record number for the college.

CRC Childcare employment expert Judith Ward said there were huge opportunities available for job-hunters with the right qualifications.

“To progress in the industry, applicants need a minimum of two Grade C GCSEs in English and Maths, although some vacancies are available for those with at least one Grade D,” she said.

“Working with children is very rewarding and an apprenticeship can lead on to a foundation degree in childcare or to management positions for those keen to climb the career ladder.

“Nurseries are desperate for extra staff to cope with the increasing demand for places, so employing apprentices and training them on the job is a great solution – which means fantastic opportunities for people who want a career in the sector.

“There’s a real skills shortage in the industry and we currently have 30 vacancies on offer in nurseries in and around Cambridge. Cambridge’s expanding population means expanding nurseries, so it’s a great time to start your career.”

Apprentices will be hands-on from day one, learning on the job and going into college for one day a week. They need to be calm, patient and good communicators, with lots of common sense and the ability to use their own initiative. Apprenticeship salaries range from around £100 to £220.

To see the full list of vacancies, go to https://www.camre.ac.uk/apprenticeships/apprenticeship-vacancies/health-childcare-care-vacancies/

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For more information, please contact Lynn O’Shea, Cambridge Regional College Press Officer, on 01223 418773 or email