Childcare Jobs in Leicester for Career Changers

Fancy trying something different? A career change to the childcare sector offers a fulfilling path to refresh your career. Read on to find out more.

Whether you’re coming from a completely different industry or looking to transition within the childcare sector, Leicester offers a diverse range of roles catering to various skill sets and interests.

On this page, we delve into the various options available for career changers in the childcare sector in Leicester.

Demand for Childcare Professionals in Leicester

With the government gradually increasing the number of childcare hours parents are eligible for through Free Early Education Entitlement (FEEE) Funding, the demand for childcare professionals is on the rise.

Between now and September 2025, the number of FEEE hours available to working parents of children aged 9 months old will double to 1,140 hours per year. As of April 2024, working parents can only access 570 hours per year and their child must be 2 years old.

This increase in hours and the reduction in age means that the demand for childcare professionals is only going to skyrocket. As such, there’s no better time to make a career change to childcare.

To learn more about working in Childcare in Leicester, visit the Leicester City Council website.

Entry Routes for Career Changers

If you’re considering a career change into childcare, you’ll first need to understand the various entry routes available. While formal qualifications such as Early Years Educator (EYE) or Teaching Assistant qualifications can enhance your prospects, many roles also value relevant experience, transferable skills, and a genuine passion for working with children.

Training and qualifications

A career in childcare often involves getting relevant qualifications and undergoing retraining. Universities, colleges, and specialised training providers offer courses ranging from introductory certificates to advanced diplomas in early years education and childcare.

Additionally, gaining practical experience through volunteering or work placements can supplement formal qualifications and give you important insights into the profession.

Types of Childcare Jobs in Leicester

Childcare roles in Leicester encompass various responsibilities and settings, catering to individuals with diverse interests and skills.

Here are some key job roles you might consider:

Nursery practitioner

Nursery practitioners play a crucial role in providing care and early education to children in nursery settings. Responsibilities may include planning and delivering activities, observing and assessing children’s development, and maintaining a safe and stimulating environment.

Teaching assistant

Teaching assistants support teachers in primary schools and early years settings, assisting with classroom activities, providing one-to-one support for children with additional needs, and helping to create a positive learning environment.

View teaching assistant jobs with no experience.

Childminder

Childminders offer childcare services in their own homes, providing a nurturing and personalised environment for children. This role involves planning activities, preparing meals, and ensuring the well-being and safety of the children in their care.

Early years educator

Early years educators work with children aged 0-5 in various settings, helping with learning and development through play-based activities and structured learning experiences.

After-school club supervisor

After-school club supervisors oversee activities and provide care for children outside of school hours. They create a safe and enjoyable environment, plan engaging activities, and ensure the well-being of the children attending the club.

Advantages of Childcare Jobs in Leicester

Choosing a career in childcare in Leicester offers numerous benefits for career changers:

• Fulfilling work: Making a positive impact on children’s lives and contributing to their development can be incredibly rewarding.
• Job security: The high demand for childcare professionals in Leicester provides a high level of job security and stability.
• Career progression: With the opportunity for further training and advancement, childcare careers offer scope for professional growth and development.
• Flexibility: Many childcare roles offer flexible working hours, making it easier to balance work with other commitments.

Find Childcare Jobs in Leicester for Career Changers

Childcare jobs in Leicester are the perfect career change option for anyone who enjoys working with children, is passionate about early years education, or is simply seeking a fulfilling career change. With a wide range of roles, high demand, and options for training and progression, Leicester’s childcare sector offers a promising pathway for those looking to refresh their careers.

Looking for childcare jobs Leicester? Check out the Refreshing a Career childcare jobs board for all the latest opportunities in Leicester.

We’ve got plenty of resources for career changers, including interview tips, CV writing tips, and much more.

Have a question? Feel free to contact our team. And finally, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter below for all the latest news and childcare job opportunities from Refreshing a Career.