If you are asking, “how to become a care worker in a children’s home?” then you have come to the right place. To become a care worker in a children’s home, you’ll need the right attitude, some experience, and usually a Level 3 qualification in health and social care—or the willingness to learn on the job. Let’s break it down.
What Does a Care Worker in a Children’s Home Do?
A care worker in a children’s home helps children who can’t live with their own families. These kids might have been through very hard times, like being hurt or not looked after properly. Your job is to give them a safe, steady place to live and grow.
You’ll help with their daily routines, like meals, getting to school, and bedtime. You’ll help with homework, listen when they’re sad, and set good rules. It’s not easy, but it’s important work that can change lives.
How to Become a Care Worker in a Children’s Home (UK 2025)
There isn’t just one way in, but there are some key steps you’ll need to follow:
1. Get Your DBS Check
You must pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. It shows that you’re safe to work with kids. Most jobs won’t even look at your application without one.
Apply online or through the company hiring you. It’s quick, but you’ll need to show ID and give addresses from the past five years.
2. Start With the Right Attitude
Qualifications matter, but your way of thinking matters more. You need patience, kindness, strength, and a sense of humour. You’ll have hard days, but your attitude makes the difference.
Employers often say they can teach skills, but they can’t teach kindness.
3. Gain Some Experience
You don’t need lots of experience to get started. Helping at youth clubs or mentoring young people counts. Some people follow and watch experienced carers or start with small support roles first.
Anything that shows you can build trust with kids is a good start.
4. Train or Work Towards a Level 3 Qualification
Most children’s home jobs ask for a Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or something like it. Other accepted options include:
- CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce
- Level 3 Health and Social Care (Children and Young People)
- NVQ Level 3 in Childcare
Don’t have one yet? No problem. Many employers will hire you if you agree to study while you work.
5. Apply for Jobs
Once you’ve got some experience and training, start applying. Look on job boards like Indeed, TotalJobs, and local council websites. You’ll also find jobs with charities and care companies.
Change your CV to match the job. Mention your experience, training, and love for helping children. Keep your cover letter honest and clear.
Other Childcare Jobs to Consider
Maybe a children’s home isn’t the perfect fit. That’s fine. Here are other childcare jobs you could look at:
Childcare Worker in a Nursery
These jobs involve looking after babies and small children. You help with play, learning, and daily care. Most nurseries ask for a Level 2 or Level 3 childcare qualification. Starting pay is about £16,000 to £24,000 per year.
Nanny
Nannies work in the child’s own home. It’s more personal than a nursery job. You’ll need a DBS check, first-aid training, and often a Level 3 childcare qualification. Average pay is around £15–£18 per hour.
Childminder
A childminder looks after children in their own home. You must register with Ofsted and take a paediatric first-aid course. You’ll also need public liability insurance and safeguarding training.
Childcare Tutor
If you have lots of experience and a teaching qualification, you can train others. Tutors teach college or apprenticeship students who want to work in childcare. You’ll need a Level 3 or above, plus a teaching certificate.
Childcare Practitioner
This is another name for early years or nursery workers. You’ll help child growth, watch progress, and create fun, safe places.
What Qualifications Do You Need for Childcare?
For most jobs, you’ll need one of the following:
- Level 2 Certificate in Childcare or Early Years
- Level 3 Diploma in Childcare
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare
Apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn. Many people start with a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner course, then move up to Level 3.
What’s the Salary Like?
Where you work and your experience change pay. London and the South East often pay more than country areas.
How to Become a Qualified Childminder in the UK
To be a childminder, you must:
- Complete a childminder training course (approved by your council)
- Pass a paediatric first-aid course
- Register with Ofsted
- Get a DBS check and health check
- Have safe home space and equipment
It can take a few months to get registered. Once approved, you set your own rates and hours.
How to Become a Qualified Nanny
You don’t need to register with Ofsted, but it helps your CV. To become a nanny, you’ll need:
- Childcare experience (babysitting, nursery work, etc.)
- A Level 3 qualification in childcare or similar
- First-aid training
- A clean DBS check
- Good references
Nannies often find jobs through agencies or word of mouth. Some live in, others work set hours.
How to Become a Childcare Tutor
If you love teaching and have childcare experience, this could be a great step. You’ll need:
- A Level 3 or higher childcare qualification
- At least 3 years of experience
- A teaching qualification like a Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)
- Confidence speaking in groups
Colleges and training companies often look for part-time tutors. Some work freelance, others take full-time jobs.
How to Become a Child Carer for Your Own Child
You don’t need formal qualifications to care for your own child. But if your child has a disability or long-term condition, you could get help.
Apply for Carer’s Allowance if you care for them 35+ hours a week. As of 2025, it pays about £83.30 per week.
Check if you can get:
- Universal Credit top-ups
- Direct Payments from your local council
- Help from charities or local support groups
How to Get Started With No Experience
Everyone starts somewhere. If you don’t have experience, try these steps:
- Help at a local youth centre or playgroup
- Join a part-time job like after-school club assistant
- Take a free online course in safeguarding or child growth
- Ask your council about training schemes or apprenticeships
Start small, show hard work, and build from there.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a care worker in a children’s home takes time, but it’s worth it. You’re not just getting a job—you’re making a real difference.
Start with the basics: DBS check, experience, and a good attitude. Then work towards your Level 3 qualification. Keep learning, and you’ll find your place.
Helping children feel safe, heard, and cared for is one of the best things you can do.
Need more info? Talk to your local council, job centre, or training provider. They’ll guide you through the next step. You’ve got this!
