Expanding Free Childcare
Thousands of new nursery staff are urgently needed as the government plans to expand free childcare in the UK. Currently, three and four-year-olds are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week, which will increase to 30 hours for working families. Starting in April, working parents of two-year-olds will also have access to 15 hours of free childcare. Over 102,000 under-twos have already been registered.
Rise in Demand
The think tank Nesta estimates that an additional 27,500 early-years professionals will be needed to meet the increased demand. However, eight in ten local authorities find the recruitment of early years staff to be very difficult. To address this, the government has launched a recruitment drive called Do Something Big. The initiative is being trialled in 20 local authorities and aims to encourage people to pursue a career working with young children.
Incentives for New Trainees
Under the Do Something Big scheme, up to 3,000 new trainees will receive a £1,000 tax-free cash incentive after three months in the job. Many nurseries are also offering more apprenticeships to attract talent. Training provider Realise has committed to providing 10,000 newly qualified apprentices to UK nurseries over the next five years. Busy Bees nursery chain has 300 apprenticeships available this year, while national chain Bright Horizons has 300 places.
Recognizing the Importance of Childcare Professionals
Clare Roberts, CEO of Kids Planet nurseries, stresses the importance of recognizing the valuable job that early years and childcare professionals do in shaping future generations. The government recruitment drive aims to bring attention to the sector and highlight its significance.
Looking for Your Perfect Job Match?
In other news, Charlotte Turner, chief growth officer at recruitment company The Portfolio Group, shares tips on how to approach job interviews with a speed-date mindset. She advises job seekers to make a good first impression, identify priorities and red flags, ask insightful questions, dress professionally, use appropriate language, keep options open, and trust their instincts.
Win £5k Package for Top Trainees
Trades Insurer Markel Direct has launched a competition to find the UK's top apprentice, celebrating their outstanding work and the vital role they play in the industry. The winner will receive a package worth up to £5,000, including a Festool toolkit and accessories, £750 to spend on TuffStuff workwear, and 24-hour tools cover for a year from Markel Direct. The competition is open for nominations until February 23.
Upskill with Specsavers
Eyecare chain Specsavers has partnered with learning firm Pearson to offer tailored courses for its staff. Employees can study for a BTEC Level 3 Certificate for Optometric Clinical Assistant and Dispensing Assistant, enhancing their career prospects. Jodie Glanville from Specsavers' Plymouth practice was the first person to complete the new qualification and found it to be beneficial in her role.
