If you are considering a career in Childcare you will need to work towards a recognised qualification. It is possible to work in some areas of childcare without qualifications but if you are considering childcare as a long term career then it will be necessary to gain an appropriate qualification.

There are many childcare qualifications available which are specific to the type of childcare and different levels which are required for certain types of posts.

Recognised qualifications are qualifications that have been approved by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) and are part of the Early Years, Childcare and Playwork Framework.

Levels of qualifications are basically as follows:
Level 2 - for people working under supervision
Level 3 – for those in a supervisory position
Level 4 – for experienced practitioners who manage a number of settings or have responsibility for quality assurance in a number of settings.

To find out more about qualifications contact Barnsley Choices or visit www.qca.org.uk