Careers

Nursery Nurses & Assistants

Nursery nurses and assistants care for children from birth up to seven years of age in day or residential nurseries, children’s homes, maternity units and similar establishments.

Tasks

Baths, dresses, prepares feed for and feeds babies, changes babies clothing whenever necessary
Supervises young children at mealtimes
Plans and organises games and other activities and supervises children’s play
Reads stories, organises counting games to help develop language and number skills
Writes reports on children’s development and maintains awareness of health and safety issues
Communicates with parents and colleagues on children’s development and well-being.

Entry Requirements

Entry is most common with GCSEs/S grades followed by the award of a certificate from the Council for Awards in Children’s Care and Education. An NVQ/SVQ in Child Care and Education or equivalent qualification at level 3 is required to work as a nursery nurse. CRB clearance is mandatory.

What could I earn?

Salaries for this occupation tend to start at £16,000 per annum and can progress up to £18,000 per annum.

Is it in growth or decline?

There are currently 25,688 employed Nursery Nurses & Assistants in the region.