Training, Qualifications and Pathways
There are many ways to start and develop a career in early years. A lot of people think that you need a strict set of qualifications to start working in the sector, but that isn’t always the case as qualifications and experience needed can vary depending on the role, setting itself and employer.
Qualifications
Some roles may ask for:
- Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualifications
- GCSEs or equivalent in English and Maths
- Experience of working with children
Other roles, including apprenticeships, allow you to work in real settings whilst offering training on the job. Many employers also value personal qualities such as patience, kindness, teamwork and a commitment to learning just as much as formal qualifications.
The requirements listed here are a general guide and are not fixed. Individual employers may have different expectations.
For a more in depth look at qualifications and pathways into Early Years careers, see early years qualifications list and pathways into early years education.
Safeguarding and DBS checks
Anyone working with children will need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This helps to make sure that children are kept safe and protected.
In most cases, your employer will support you with the DBS process as a part of your application or induction. Having a DBS check is normal and an expected part of working in early years and should not be seen as a barrier to starting a career in the sector.
Safeguarding is a shared responsibility and Sefton Council is committed to supporting early years staff and settings through guidance on safeguarding, SEND, good practice and quality improvement. This support helps practitioners to feel confident and well equipped to deliver high‑quality care and education for children.
See more about our Safeguarding Policy.
Training and Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
Once you are working in early years, there are ongoing opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career. In Sefton, we are committed to supporting everyone who works in the sector, and we believe that ongoing training and CPD opportunities are essential for building confidence and morale so that staff are able to provide high-quality provisions and positive environments for children.
Our Early Years Quality Team and Early Years SEND Team work closely with schools and settings to provide tailored support that meets local needs and ‘Education Excellence’. The level of support offered can vary depending on the type of setting and the children being supported. This support includes:
- Regular quality visits and targeted SEND support for schools and settings
- Free ‘Early Years Health Checks’ for schools preparing for Ofsted, or teaching and learning audits for those not currently in the Ofsted window
- Free ‘Early Years SEND Health Checks’
- Bespoke support packages for schools and settings requesting additional help
- Staff training sessions for Early Years teams and termly training for early years leads
- A wide range of free CPD opportunities, working internally and with partners to deliver high-quality training
- Projects designed to support the needs of children in Sefton (e.g. Ready to Learn initiative)
- Professional conferences led by experienced and respected guest speakers
This commitment to training, support and development helps early years professionals in Sefton grow their confidence and skills to develop long-term careers within the sector.
To see more of what training we offer for Early Years professionals, view our Early Years Training Portal.
Considering a career in early years?
We asked staff at All Saints Children's Ventures what they would say to somebody considering a career in early years. This is what they had to say.
Finding jobs and opportunities
Current jobs, apprenticeships and training opportunities can be found on our Jobs, Training and Volunteering page.
We are also always happy to welcome new providers, see more on our Childminders page.
You may also find opportunities directly through nurseries, schools and childcare providers across Sefton.
Build a future in Early Years! Your care, commitment and enthusiasm could make a lasting difference to children and families across Sefton.