So, you want to know how to become a childcare worker? Great choice. It’s one of the most rewarding jobs out there. But here’s the thing: most people waste time, money, and energy getting started. I’ve seen it happen again and again. In this post, I’ll show you how to get into childcare the smart way. You will also learn how to avoid the common pitfalls people face during their first year.
This is the real, no-nonsense and no-fluff introduction to childcare—whether you’ve just finished school, are switching careers, or simply have a deep love for kids.
How to Become a Childcare Worker
1. Don’t Think You Need a Degree to Work in Childcare
One of the biggest wrong ideas? Thinking you need a university degree. You don’t. Most childcare workers in the UK start with a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification. That’s it.
If you want to work in a nursery, preschool, or playgroup, go for:
- Level 2 Early Years Practitioner (starter level)
- Level 3 Early Years Educator (more advanced and better pay)
You can take these as college courses or apprenticeships. Many employers even pay you while you learn. The average course takes 12 to 24 months.
Keyword tip: If you’re wondering how long does it take to become a childcare worker, that’s your answer. About one to two years, if you want the right qualifications. But you can start sooner in beginner roles.
2. Don’t Waste Money on Courses You Don’t Need
Some people spend loads on childcare courses that don’t even help. Here’s what you really need to get started:
- A recognised childcare course (Level 2 or 3)
- A clean, enhanced DBS check (about £48)
- A Paediatric First Aid certificate (£50-£100)
That’s it. If you do an apprenticeship, your boss usually pays for it. If you’re under 19 and in college, the course is often free.
If you want to become a childminder, you’ll need to spend a bit more. You’ll have to register with Ofsted, buy insurance, pay for health checks, and set up your home to be safe. Plan to spend around £600 to £700 to start.
Extra tip: Once you’re working in childcare, CPD (Continuing Professional Development) courses can really boost your skills. These short, useful courses help you stay sharp and learn new things. Topics include safeguarding, behaviour support, child development, and SEND. As a CPD course provider, we offer flexible, online training that fits your schedule. You can learn on your phone, at your pace, anytime. CPD courses help you grow your confidence and look good to employers.
3. Don’t Skip Real-World Experience in Childcare
You can’t learn childcare from a book. You need to be around kids. That’s how you learn what really works.
Start helping out. Try a nursery or after-school club, or help a family friend. Even just a few hours each week makes a big difference. It gives you stories to share in interviews. It shows you’re serious. And it helps you decide if this is really for you.
You can even find paid work as a nursery assistant without formal training. Many places let you learn while you work.
So, if you’re asking how to become a child carer with no experience, this is where you start.
4. Don’t Mess Up the Paperwork
If you want to work with kids, you need an enhanced DBS check. You can’t skip it. If something’s on your record, be honest about it. It will show up.
Some nurseries want you to have English and Maths GCSEs. If you don’t, take a basic skills course to catch up.
If you want to become a childminder, there’s more to do. You need to register with Ofsted, write safety plans, and get your home ready. It’s a real job, not just babysitting.
5. Don’t Expect Big Money in Your First Year
Childcare pays okay, but don’t expect to get rich. Here’s what most people earn:
- Nursery assistant: around £16,000 a year
- Level 3 qualified: between £20,000 and £24,000
- Experienced in London: up to £30,000
Hourly pay usually falls between £8.50 and £11. Private nannies or childminders can earn more, especially with more than one child.
It’s not a high-paying job, but it’s steady and needed.
6. Don’t Miss Out on the New Childcare Boom
In 2024 and 2025, the government started new help for working parents. Families now get 15 to 30 hours a week of free childcare for young kids.
This means more kids in childcare. More parents going back to work. More jobs opening up. And yes—more chances for you to train and grow.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it.
7. Don’t Overthink It—Start Today
People get stuck. They scroll through job ads. They look up courses. And they never take the first step.
Don’t be that person. Here’s what you can do this week:
- Look up local apprenticeships
- Ask a nursery if they need help
- Apply for your DBS check
- Sign up for a childcare course
Start now. You’ll figure the rest out as you go.
Bonus: What Childcare Costs Look Like in 2025
Knowing what parents pay helps you understand your worth.
In 2025, costs dropped in England thanks to new government help. Here’s what families pay on average:
- Full-time nursery (under 2): £239 per week
- Part-time (25 hrs/week): £70.50 with help
- Daily rate: around £45–£60 depending on where you live
Childminders usually charge £4 to £6 an hour. Many parents like them for the home feel and flexible hours.
Why CPD Courses Matter in Childcare
You might finish your training, get a job, and think you’re done. But that’s just the start.
In childcare, you need to keep learning. That’s where CPD comes in. These short courses keep you fresh. They help you understand new rules, tricky behaviour, and better ways to support kids.
CPD shows employers you care. It builds trust with parents. And it makes your job easier because you know what’s going on.
We offer CPD courses that fit around your life. No classroom. No stress. Just useful training that helps you do your job better.
Mistake to Avoid: Thinking Childcare Is Easy
Some people think childcare is just playtime and changing nappies. It’s not. This job takes heart, energy, and quick thinking.
You need to plan fun things. Keep kids safe. Spot signs when something’s not right. Talk to parents. Follow rules. And still smile through it all.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed if you go in thinking the job will be simple. But if you show up ready to learn, ask questions, and truly care about the kids, you’ll grow quickly—and they’ll be glad you’re there.
Final Thoughts: A Smarter Way to Start in Childcare
Still wondering how to become a childcare worker? It’s not hard—but it does take heart, and patience. And had work, of course. Keep showing up to training, stay curious, and you’ll find your way.
You don’t need to have a degree, either. You don’t need to spend loads.
Start with what you have. Build as you go. Learn while you work. And most importantly, avoid the beginner mistakes we just talked about.
Childcare needs people like you. So get out there and get started.
Ready to work with kids? Enrol in our online Childcare Courses at Unified Course and take your first step with confidence—start today.
