Nursery Assistant

A Nursery Assistant looks after young children and provides a safe, stimulating environment for them to grow and learn in.

You will work with children aged 0 – 5 years old, supporting their learning and development. You will engage in various tasks such as supervising play activities, assisting with meals and naps, maintaining and organisation within a nursery. You will need to record observations, summarise achievements and talk with parents, staff, and other educational professionals.

Nursery Assistant is also known as Early Years Practitioner.

Role Characteristics

Make sure that children are safe, happy and stimulated
Communicate information to children using play
Encourage children’s development
Create a child friendly environment
Find ways to stimulate children particularly those with special and sensory needs
Support families and carers in the parenting of their children

Skills

Attention to detail
Problem-solving
Taking initiative
Team work
Observation
Communication

Day in the life

Watch this video to find out more about the work of a Nursery Assistant.

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

Volunteering or work experience

Apply directly

GCSEs

BTEC

T-Level

An apprenticeship

How to become

There are no set entry requirements for Nursery Assistants. Employers expect a good level of literacy and numeracy and may ask for GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. Employers may ask for a childcare qualification such as BTEC.

They usually expect some experience of childcare, which could be voluntary or paid, including experience within the family or babysitting. Apprenticeships in a childcare related role are sometimes available.

It is important to check your preferred employer's entry requirements for guidance.

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

Once you've gained experience as a Nursing Assistant there may be opportunities to move into a management role. This could be a staff supervisory role or managing a nursery or group of nurseries. With additional qualifications and experience, it's possible to specialise in certain areas, such as special educational needs.