What is Early Years?
Working in early years means supporting children from birth to five years old, a vital stage in their lives. It is a rewarding career where you can make a lasting difference to children and families across Sefton. If you are considering a career in early years, this microsite is a great place to start.
What is early years?
The early years are the first years of a child’s life, from birth to the age of five. These years are important for children’s learning, development and wellbeing. During this time, children develop key skills such as communication, confidence, independence and emotional understanding.
Early years professionals can provide vital support to a child’s development during the first stages of their life. Support can come in many forms, an example being learning through play, and is guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which is a national framework used across England. Find more about the EYFS.
What careers are there in early years?
A common misconception about a career in early years is that it just means supervising and entertaining young children. But this is only one small element of a job that could fall under the early years umbrella and there are many different roles and responsibilities within the sector. Some roles you can expect to find are:
Many people begin in entry-level roles and progress over time through experience and development. You might begin as a Nursery Nurse or Teaching Assistant, but higher roles such as Senior Practitioner, Room Leader, Deputy Manager and Nursery Manager are all very attainable with experience and training. A career in early years can also lead to even wider opportunities in education, health, family support and leadership – there is not one singular path!
What does working in early years look like?
A typical day working in early years is varied and no two days are the same! Practitioners follow children’s interests to help them to explore and learn whilst in their care, often making working environments both structured and creative all at once.
Some general responsibilities of an early years practitioner may be:
- Supporting children’s learning through play and planned activities
- Helping children to develop social, emotional and communication skills
- Building positive relationships with children and families
- Supporting children’s health, safety and wellbeing
- Monitoring the progress of a child’s development
- Managing daily routines and transitions to school
- Working closely with parents, colleagues and other professionals
Staff at All Saints Children's Ventures have shared with us what working with young children looks like day-to-day, highlighting the key responsibilities of an early years practitioner.
Thinking about your next step?
A career in early years can be for anyone! Some people join the profession as a school leaver, whilst others join later in life following a career change. Many roles offer training on the job, apprenticeships and clear routes for progression. Your life experience, enthusiasm and willingness to learn are all valued.
To see more about the benefits of a career in Early Years, visit our Why Work in Early Years page.