KiddyKare Staff Solutions supports your childcare needs

May 19, 2025

happy children running in field in summer

Early Years is a vital sector that touches the lives of families, children, and communities. Finding the right staff for temporary or permanent roles can be a challenge for schools, nurseries, preschools and other childcare providers.

That’s where KiddyKare Staff Solutions step in to help. With our first-hand Early Years expertise and dedication, we provide seamless recruitment services tailored to meet the dynamic needs of the childcare sector.

Supporting temporary work

Flexibility is key in the childcare industry, where staffing needs can shift due to unforeseen circumstances, seasonal demands, or last-minute absences.

KiddyKare specialises in connecting providers with highly qualified and vetted professionals for temporary roles. Whether you need someone for a single day or a few weeks, we ensure you’re never left short-handed.

Our pool of handpicked candidates includes nursery assistants and nursery practitioners who hold a wealth of experience within the early years sector, so are ready to step in and deliver exceptional care whenever needed.

Enabling permanent work

Recruiting permanent staff is a significant investment of time and resources, and KiddyKare understands how important it is to find the perfect match.

We take the stress out of recruitment by identifying permanent candidates who align with your ethos, qualifications, and experience requirements. From initial screenings to interviews and placements, we support you throughout the process. Helping you to build a reliable, passionate and committed team who can grow with your organisation.

Rigorous compliance checks and qualification standards

At KiddyKare, we take pride in upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism in childcare staffing.

All candidates undergo rigorous compliance checks to ensure they meet legal and regulatory requirements. This includes safer recruitment policies and background checks.

We also guarantee all recruited staff who hold an early year’s qualification will be checked to ensure they are full and relevant, enabling them to deliver care and education that aligns with sector standards. These measures provide peace of mind for childcare providers, knowing their team is both qualified and trustworthy.

Why choose KiddyKare?

KiddyKare Staff Solutions stand out for our professionalism, efficiency and a deep understanding of the childcare industry. Here are just a few reasons why providers trust us:

Tailored Solutions: Whether you’re looking for short-term cover or long-term hires, KiddyKare customises our services to suit your needs.
Qualified Staff: All candidates are thoroughly vetted, ensuring they meet high standards of competence, relevant certifications and passion for childcare.
Time-Saving: With KiddyKare handling recruitment, you can focus on what matters most—providing quality care to children and families.

Whether you’re navigating the challenges of temporary staffing or building a strong, permanent team, KiddyKare is here to support you every step of the way. Our commitment to excellence and understanding of the childcare sector make us a trusted partner for providers across the board.

Enhance your childcare team

If you’re ready to enhance your childcare team, we have the expertise and resources to help you thrive. Let us take the weight off your shoulders and ensure your staff needs are met with care, precision and reliability.

Speak to one of our friendly team to find out how we can help. Call us on 01628 675828 or send us an enquiry.

Unlocking opportunities with KiddyKare Staff Solutions: Pathways for Early Years professionals

May 16, 2025

Three young happy children holding hands running through woods

Navigating the job market can be daunting, especially for Early Years qualified candidates seeking roles that align with their skills and aspirations.

Enter KiddyKare Staff Solutions – your trusted partner in childcare recruitment dedicated to connecting passionate professionals with rewarding opportunities in the Early Years sector.

Why choose KiddyKare?

KiddyKare Staff Solutions stands out as a beacon for those looking to make meaningful career moves.

Our team of childcare-trained consultants, who understand the intricacies of the Early Years sector through first-hand experience, offer tailored candidate support.

Whether you’re seeking flexible temporary roles or permanent positions, our expertise ensures a seamless match between your qualifications and the needs of nurseries, schools and families.

Flexible roles for dynamic professionals

For those who value adaptability, KiddyKare provides access to a variety of temporary roles within Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

These positions are perfect for candidates who thrive in diverse environments and enjoy the flexibility to choose their hours and days. Temporary roles also offer a chance to gain experience across different settings, enriching your professional journey.

Permanent positions for career stability and growth

If you’re aiming for long-term stability, KiddyKare excels in placing candidates in permanent roles.

From nursery nurses to managerial positions, we meticulously match your skills and experience with the requirements of Early Years settings. Our thorough screening process ensures each candidate is well-prepared and equipped to excel in their new role.

A supportive recruitment experience

What sets KiddyKare apart is our commitment to a positive recruitment experience.

Our candidates benefit from regular communication, personalised guidance, and a proactive approach to matching them with suitable roles.

Testimonials from professionals highlight our friendly and professional demeanour, making the job search process both enjoyable and rewarding.

A trusted career partner

KiddyKare Staff Solutions are more than a recruitment agency— we are a partner in your career journey.

Whether you’re seeking flexibility or permanence, our expertise and dedication make us an invaluable resource for Early Years qualified candidates.

With KiddyKare, you’re not just finding a job; you’re unlocking opportunities to shape the future of Early Years education.

Ready to take the next step? Explore the possibilities with KiddyKare and discover the role that’s perfect for you! Search our current vacancies or learn more about us.

The secret recipe for a perfect childcare temp

April 14, 2025

Kids exploring in forest with a magnifying glass

When it comes to finding the ideal temporary support to step into a nursery setting, it’s not just about qualifications on paper. It’s about discovering someone who can seamlessly integrate into your team. Who brings with them heart, creativity and the innate ability to engage with young minds in ways that leave a lasting impression.

Creating a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment for children is not an easy task, but with the right mix of qualities and skills, a temporary nursery assistant can become an indispensable part of the team. Join us as we explore the “recipe” for the perfect temporary childcarer – a carefully balanced mix of traits and talents that truly makes all the difference in nurturing young minds.

Ingredients for the perfect childcarer:

1 cup of boundless energy (to keep up with little ones).
2 tablespoons of patience (adjust as required, depending on the day’s events).
1 scoop of creativity (for crafting, storytelling, and imaginative play).
A sprinkle of humour (essential for handling the unexpected chaos and ensuring the day is filled with fun).
A pinch of organisational skills (because keeping a track of everything is key).
A dash of empathy and care (to understand and nurture each child’s unique needs).
An ounce of adaptability (for all those curveball moments – some days there can be many!).

Method

Mix in your boundless energy with patience until they’re well-balanced and steady.
Add in the creativity and humour to bring touches of magic and sparkle to every activity.
Sprinkle in organisational skills carefully to maintain structure and order.
Carefully fold through empathy and care; these ingredients are the heart of the mix.
Stir in adaptability until the blend is smooth and able to handle surprises effortlessly.
Serve with warmth, kindness and a smile – it’s sure to be a hit with the little ones and colleagues alike!

Crafting the perfect temporary nursery assistant may seem like a big order, but when the unique blend of enthusiasm, creativity, and care come together the impact can be profound.

By combining these essential traits you’re creating an environment where children can thrive, laugh and learn. Whether it’s for a single day or a few weeks, a great nursery assistant can leave a lasting impression, making every moment count. After all, in a child’s world, even things that are temporary can feel truly magical.

If you’re a nursery looking for temporary childcare solutions speak to one of our team on 01628 675828. We’ve got a large bank of reliable, qualified and experienced childcarers ready to step up and support your team.

A day in the life of Jen – KiddyKare’s director

April 14, 2025

The life of a childcare agency director is a dynamic blend of professional dedication and personal commitments. It’s a whirlwind of early starts, juggling multiple responsibilities, and a deep commitment to ensuring the well-being of children and the smooth operation of a vital service.

Here our director Jen shares a typical day in her life, from the chaotic but cherished family morning to the final moments of quiet reflection before another busy day begins. Prepare for a glimpse into the heart of it all, where passion for childcare meets the daily demands of running a childcare agency.

Morning Routine

6:00 AM: Wake up and get myself ready for the day ahead.
6:30 AM: Family morning life kicks into play preparing children’s breakfast, getting ready for school, packing lunch and school bags. (Oh if only it was this smooth and I didn’t have to encourage numerous times in a morning!).
8.20 AM: Shoes are on and we make our way to school.

Workday Begins

9:00 AM: Arrive at work, open up my laptop and check my emails making my ‘To do’ list for the day. The morning meeting begins where we talk through the day, the stages we are all at with our tasks and who needs support.
9:30 AM: It’s cup of tea time! Then I catch up with Jodi our Recruitment Manager.
10:00 AM: Start working through my ‘To do’ list and attend any online calls.
12:00 PM: Cover the phones while the team go for some fresh air.

Afternoon Tasks

1:00 PM: Lunchtime (one of my favourite times of the day!). I usually continue working on any plans I need to write down for the week.
1:30 PM: Tea time, whilst I continue with jobs.
2:50 PM: Tie up tasks before heading off for school pick up.
3.45 PM: Take the dog out for a walk and some well-deserved fresh air! Then it’s parent taxi service time – taking and collecting the kids from clubs.

Evening Routine

5.00 PM: Continuation of above and support with homework.
6:00 PM: Prepare the evening meal and eat dinner in relay or together as a family dependent who is where!
7:00 PM: Catch up on home jobs, washing and tidying up after the day.
7.30 PM: Then it’s the evening routine getting everyone ready for bed.
8.45 PM: Time to relax and watch our favourite dramas.
9.50 PM: Unwind and bedtime, ready for an early start again tomorrow.

A day in the life of Emily – KiddyKare’s compliance consultant

March 21, 2025

Emily the Compliance Consultant at KiddyKare

Ever wondered what it really takes to keep the delicate balance of childcare recruitment and compliance in check? Forget the serene images of playful nurseries – behind the scenes, it’s a whirlwind of meticulous checks, urgent placements, and the constant hum of ensuring every child is in safe hands.

Join us as we peel back the curtain and dive into a day in the life of Emily, our compliance consultant at KiddyKare.

From dawn’s early calls to late-afternoon emergency shift requests, we’ll walk you through the challenges and unwavering dedication that defines this vital role. Get ready for a glimpse into the fast-paced world where safeguarding meets staffing, and where every detail matters.

Morning Routine

6:00 AM: Alarm goes off and the coffee goes on. Time to get ready for the day!
6:50 AM: Leave the house to warm up the car and set up a podcast for the journey, my current favourite is He Said, She Said.

Workday Begins

7:25 AM: Park up (same space every day of course!) and make my way into the office.
7:30 AM: Arrive at the office to join Jodi, normally turning the heating on as I walk past it. We start working on the emergency shifts and any staff sickness that have come in this morning.
8:00 AM: Another team member arrives which means it’s time for coffee and a quick catch up.
8:30 AM: Time to upload and contact all the candidates that have applied through the KiddyKare website overnight.
9:00 AM: Jen and Charlotte arrive, and we discuss what is happening with the permanent desk meeting: We will go through any new vacancies and adverts we need to create.
9:30 AM: Start update checks using the DBS portal and check the system for all processing DBS’ to ensure they are on track.
10:00 AM: Check in with the nurseries and schools, making sure they are happy with any confirmed bookings and to discuss any further gaps in staff rotas that may have occurred.
12:00 PM: Lunch time! We try and squeeze in a lunchtime walk (weather depending). This is usually the time I grill everyone on what they are having for dinner – food will always be my favourite topic of conversation.

Afternoon Tasks

1:00 PM: Back to the desk and time to check up on any emails that have come in over the lunch break.
1:30 PM: This is usually a quieter point of the day so during this time I create the ID badges and send out timesheets.
2:00 PM: The kettle is on again and it is time to check in with all of the new agency members who are signing up. I keep them in the loop about where their application is and ask for any missing information.
2:30PM: ID check – this is usually a time new members come to their ‘ID check meeting’ where I meet with each new team member to discuss the ethos of KiddyKare and to gain their right to work documents.
3:30 PM: Temp meeting with Jodi – we catch up with each other to discuss any queries and any outstanding shifts we need to fill.
3:45 PM: Time to pack up and head home – ready to start my podcast where I left off this morning

Evening Routine

4:30 PM: Arrive home and make a cup of coffee – ready to be on call for any last minute emergency shifts needed tomorrow.
6:00 PM: The phone is now off and it is time to unwind.
6:30 PM: Time to get dinner on and start the evening routine.
7:30 PM: Eastenders time!
8:00 PM: Unwind for the night – shower, Pj’s and TV catch up.
9:30 PM: Bedtime, ready to do it again tomorrow.

A guide to agency work in childcare and education

March 13, 2025

Embarking on a career in childcare and education is an incredibly rewarding choice.

Agency work in childcare and education can offer a flexible and diverse career path. It allows professionals to work in various settings and gain valuable experience. While making a positive impact on children’s lives. But it can also present unique opportunities and challenges to navigate.

For those considering agency work within this field, we hope this blog post will guide you through what to expect and how to be successful in this dynamic environment.

What is agency work in childcare and education?

Agency work within childcare and education involves working through a recruitment agency that connects childcare professionals with nurseries, schools, and pre-schools in need of temporary or permanent staff. These roles can range from an apprentice role to management level roles.

Benefits of agency work in childcare

Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of agency work is the flexibility it offers. Though the hours within daycare settings can be specific there will always be great flexibility on the days you work, whether you prefer full-time, part-time, or occasional work they’ll be something that works for you.
Variety: Agency work allows you to experience different childcare and educational settings, from nurseries to schools. This variety can help you build a diverse skill set and allow you to discover which environment and age range you enjoy most.
Experience: Working in various settings exposes you to different age groups, developmental stages, and caregiving philosophies. This experience can be invaluable for your professional growth and future career opportunities.
Support: Our KiddyKare office team boasts extensive experience in the childcare and education sector, allowing us to offer exceptional support and advice. We are delighted to address any questions you may have and are committed to finding the answers you need.

Tips for thriving in agency work

Stay Organised: Keep a detailed calendar of your booked shifts and available days in advance to stay on top of things. Staying organised will help you manage your time effectively and make the most of your agency work.
Be Adaptable: Embrace the variety and unpredictability of agency work. Being adaptable to work within shifts that are booked on the day and open to new locations and settings will help you thrive and build a reputation as a reliable and flexible professional.
Build Relationships: Even in temporary roles, strive to build positive relationships with children at the setting and staff team. Effective communication and a friendly attitude will leave a lasting impression and may lead to future opportunities.
Invest in Professional Development: Take advantage of any training or development resources offered by your agency. Continuously improving your skills and knowledge will enhance your employability and help you stay competitive in the childcare field. Qualified or unqualified it will always make you an attractive candidate when you keep up to date with any changes within the sector you work within.
Seek Feedback: Actively seek feedback from the management and team at the setting and/or your agency to understand your strengths and areas for improvement. Constructive feedback will always help you grow professionally and ensure you are providing the best support possible to the nursery team and children within the setting.

Conclusion

Agency work in childcare and education offers a unique and fulfilling career path with the potential for personal and professional growth. By embracing flexibility, staying organised, and continuously developing your skills, you can navigate the opportunities and challenges of agency work and make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families.

Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to diversify your experience, agency work in childcare can open doors to a world of possibilities.

A day in the life of KiddyKare’s recruitment manager

February 17, 2025

Jodi Walden Recruitment Manager at KiddyKare

Ensuring a thriving childcare sector, staffed with passionate, qualified professionals is no small feat. Behind the scenes, dedicated recruitment managers work tirelessly to connect exceptional candidates with schools and nurseries across the UK.

But what exactly does a typical day look like for someone working in this dynamic and demanding field? In this article Jodi offers a glimpse into the fast-paced world of a childcare recruitment manager. From dealing with the early morning inbox deluge to the satisfaction of placing the perfect candidate, Jodi reveals the meticulous work that goes into this vital role.

Morning Routine

6:00 AM: Wake up and get ready for the day.
6:45 AM: Make my way to work and listen to a book on the way, currently we are listening to Mel Robins – The Let Them Theory.

Workday Begins

7:15 AM: Arrive at work, open the office ready for everyone to arrive. Set up my laptop ready for the day and listen to any voicemails.
7:30 AM: Emily arrives and we begin to cover any shifts due to sickness or any emergency shifts required by any school or nursery settings.
8:00 AM: Morning coffee time! I begin to work through and organise emails according to the routine of the day.
8:30 AM: Coffee time while we continue with the above alongside working on any new business requirements.
9:00 AM: Jen and Charlotte arrive and we begin the permanent desk meeting. This covers catching up on any new vacancies, candidates and the stages of the process they are all individually at.
9:30 AM: Catch up with my director Jen.
10:00 AM: Contact the school and nursery settings, discuss and gather staffing support required for any future weeks. I then begin to work on all gaps and ensure all shifts are booked and confirmed to ensure the settings have consistency and guaranteed support.
12:00 PM: Lunch time! Normally we will all try and get outside for a walk on our break as we find this helps with productivity for any afternoon tasks

Afternoon Tasks

1:00 PM: Time to return to work. This begins with a catch up with the team and on emails, to ensure I am aware of anything that has happened whilst I was on my break.
1:30 PM: This is the time for any small admin tasks or staff requests such as P45 requests, payroll support, purchase order numbers and any other queries.
2:00 PM: Afternoon coffee time and social media! I work on any updates for the website, blog posts, the staff newsletter and any social media posts including our fabulous temp of the month!
3:30 PM: Temp meeting with Emily where we discuss any remaining requirements and future tasks we need to add to our list for the next day.
3:45 PM: Wrap up the day by completing any remaining task and begin my list ready for tomorrow morning.

Evening Routine

5:00 PM: Time to head to the gym!
6:30 PM: Return from the gym, shower and get cosy.
7:00 PM: Dinner time – cook and prepare tonight’s dinner.
7:30 PM: Relaxation time, tick any small task off my to do list and catch up on my favourite tv shows.
9:30 PM: Time to wind down with a book and switch off, ready for a good night’s sleep.

Random Acts of Kindness Day

February 12, 2025

Every year on February 17th, the world celebrates Random Acts of Kindness Day. The day is all about making the world a better place through small, thoughtful gestures that show kindness and compassion. Reminding us that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Kindness is a powerful force that can bring people together, creating a sense of community and improving our overall well-being. Research has shown performing acts of kindness can boost our mood, reduce stress and increase our sense of happiness. When we do something kind for others, we not only make them feel good, but we also experience a positive impact on our own mental and emotional health.

So how can you celebrate this year? There are countless ways to spread kindness and here are just a few ideas to inspire you:

Give a compliment: A compliment can brighten someone’s day and make them feel valued.
Buy someone’s coffee: Whether it’s buying a coffee for the person behind you in line or your colleague, small acts of generosity can create a ripple effect of kindness.
Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to a local charity. Volunteering not only helps others but also gives you a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Positive messages: Write a positive message on a sticky note and leave it in a public place for someone to find. You never know who might need a little pick-me-up.
Donate to a charity: Consider donating to a charity that you care about. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact.

Here are some of the ways KiddyKare is going to celebrate kindness this year:

Surprise each other with treats for the day.
Write recommendations on LinkedIn for people we work or have worked with.
Give compliments to fellow colleagues within our office building.
Send a positive message to all employees before they start their day.
Practise self-kindness by ensuring we spend 30 minutes doing something we love.

Random Acts of Kindness Day is a wonderful opportunity to remind ourselves of the power of kindness. By spreading joy through small gestures, we can create a more connected and caring world. So, let’s celebrate this special day by performing random acts of kindness and making the world a brighter place, one kind act at a time.

Spread Joy, One Kind Gesture at a Time

Prepare to ace your interview

January 20, 2025

So, you’ve spotted the perfect childcare job – the one with the right hours, the right age group, and a setting that feels like the perfect fit. Now comes the exciting but nerve-wracking part: the interview.

For childcarers, the interview isn’t just about getting a job; it’s about demonstrating your passion, skills, and understanding of child development to ensure the safety and well-being of young minds.

In this blog we explore why thorough interview preparation is crucial and offer some top tips to help you shine and secure that dream role.

Let’s get ready to ace that interview!

Common types of interview

Given the variety of interview types and stages, it’s crucial to know what kind you’ll be facing so you can prepare adequately.

Your interview might be:

Face-to-Face: some companies stick with this traditional method throughout the entire interview process and could be the only interview you’ll have with the company. It’s one of the most widely used and longest-standing interview styles.
Telephone: often used in the early stages of the interview process, this method helps both parties get to know each other quickly. It helps determine if it’s worth moving forward to a face-to-face interview.
Video Call: ideal for remote roles, this method doesn’t require you to be in the same location. It’s also useful when interviews involve multiple people with tight schedules, allowing everyone to meet virtually.

5 tried and tested interview preparation tips

Once you know what type of interview you’ll be having, it’s time to start preparing. Preparation for interviews is essential and demonstrates your dedication and commitment to your job search.

As Benjamin Franklin said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”

You can prepare in various ways, and while not all tips apply to every interview style, most can be adapted:

Research: investigate the company and common interview questions.
Practice: rehearse your answers, practice logging in for a video call, or plan your route, transport and parking for an in-person interview.
Presentation: look presentable; take extra time to iron your clothes or polish your shoes to make a great first impression.
Punctuality: be on time for all interviews. Log in early for video calls, arrive with plenty of time for face-to-face meetings, and ensure you’re in a quiet place for telephone interviews.
Clarity: speak clearly and be concise in your responses.

As your interview concludes, it’s a good idea to inquire about the next steps and what to expect in the upcoming stages of the process. Remember to express your gratitude to the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to speak with them

Best of luck with your interview preparations!

How to craft a compelling CV

January 20, 2025

A compelling CV is key to landing your dream job. To help your CV stand out in the crowd and land you the interview for your dream job, our KiddyKare experts have created this guide to writing the perfect CV.

Top tip: remember your CV (Curriculum Vitae) is often the first impression you make on potential employers. It’s more than just a list of your experiences; it’s a reflection of your skills, achievements, and professional journey, so let’s make it shine.

What to include in your CV

1. Personal Profile

This is your chance to sell yourself and the traits you think make you a great candidate for the role. You can do this by describing yourself and your goals in a few sentences. Tailor this to the role you are applying for to highlight the skills you can transfer across to your new role.

2. Highlight Your Work Experience

We find starting with your most current role allows your career timeline to be followed easily. In each section include your job title and a description that details your job specification. This allows future employers to match your skills and roles to the job specification of their vacancy.

Top tip: if you’ve had a break in your employment history, regardless of the reason, make sure to include this period in your CV. Whether it was due to job searching after a temporary contract, parental responsibilities, further studies, or taking a gap year, detailing these intervals helps maintain a clear and complete employment timeline.

3. Showcase Your Education

Include your most recent and relevant education, and add in any courses you’ve undertaken – however make sure they are relevant to the job in question.

4. Key Skills

This is where you can highlight any professional skills you feel would make you stand out from other candidates. These can be personality traits you can bring to the company that will ensure you succeed, or knowledge-based skills that you have learnt throughout your experience.

5. Tailor Your CV for Each Job Application

If you’re applying for a different role, that isn’t like your current or previous roles, it is best to tailor your CV to show how your skills, experience and personality traits match with the new role you’re applying for.

As you know, lots of skills can be transferred across to many roles and sectors, however tailoring you CV to highlight your most relevant skills for a new role, allows your suitability to come across clearly to the hiring manager.

Final Tips

Keep it concise: keep your CV short and to the point, this helps the company read about you without running out of time. Two pages is ideal.

Use a professional format: a fancy font, won’t help and if anything, it could put someone off. A most used font like will keep it clear and save you some time.

Proofread: spell check is there for a reason and will really show attention to detail. Also ask someone else to read through your CV to spot any errors and make sure it makes sense.

Writing a good CV takes time and effort, but it’s worth it to create a document that truly represents your professional journey. This way you can add current experience to an already strong document.

Good luck with your job search!

Supporting temporary work

Enabling permanent work

Rigorous compliance checks and qualification standards

Why choose KiddyKare?

Enhance your childcare team

Why choose KiddyKare?

Flexible roles for dynamic professionals

Permanent positions for career stability and growth

A supportive recruitment experience

A trusted career partner

Ingredients for the perfect childcarer:

Method

Morning Routine

Workday Begins

Afternoon Tasks

Evening Routine

Morning Routine

Workday Begins

Afternoon Tasks

Evening Routine

What is agency work in childcare and education?

Benefits of agency work in childcare

Tips for thriving in agency work

Conclusion

Morning Routine

Workday Begins

Afternoon Tasks

Evening Routine

Common types of interview

5 tried and tested interview preparation tips

What to include in your CV

1. Personal Profile

2. Highlight Your Work Experience

3. Showcase Your Education

4. Key Skills

5. Tailor Your CV for Each Job Application

Final Tips

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