Are you looking to join a nursery team, support early years learning, or step into a school-based role? Then these tips are here to help you shine. Whether you’re just starting out or ready for your next move, think of this as your job-hunting toolkit, tailored for the world of education and childcare.

1. Tailor your CV to the setting

Every nursery, school or childcare provider is different. Read the job ad carefully and highlight the skills they’re asking for whether it’s safeguarding knowledge, SEND experience, or a warm, nurturing approach.

Find more KiddyKare CV writing tips here:

How to craft a compelling CV

12 things to leave off your CV

2. Make your personal statement count

This is your chance to show your passion for working with children. Keep it short, focused, and full of heart. Mention your experience, your values and why you love supporting little learners.

3. Know your EYFS (or Curriculum!)

Brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage or relevant curriculum frameworks. Being able to talk confidently about child development, learning through play, or behaviour strategies shows you’re ready to hit the ground running.

Check our our blog on ‘Understanding qualification requirements for early years‘ for more information.

4. Keep your online presence professional

If you’re applying for a role in education or childcare, your digital footprint matters. Make sure your LinkedIn (or any other public social profiles) reflect your professional side – especially if you’ve shared any childcare tips, activities or resources.

5. Prep for interview questions

Expect questions like “How would you handle a safeguarding concern?” or “Tell us about a time you supported a child’s development.” Use real examples and keep it child focused.

Find more tips in our blog ‘How to prepare for your childcare interview’.

6. Follow up with warmth

After applying or interviewing, a polite follow-up email shows you’re thoughtful and committed. It’s a small gesture that speaks volumes in a people-focused profession.

7. Stay positive and reflective

Childcare and education are all about growth and that includes you! If you don’t land the first role, reflect, tweak your CV and keep going. Your next opportunity is out there.

8. Let your personality shine

In early years and education, warmth, creativity and teamwork matter just as much as qualifications. Be yourself your energy and passion are what make you stand out.

We wish you the best of luck with finding your dream childcare role and are here to help you on your journey.

Search our latest childcare vacancies.

Or to speak to the KiddyKare team on 01628 675828.

Understanding Qualification Requirements for Early Years

November 13, 2025

child plays with wooden blocks with letters on the floor

Whether you’re just starting your journey in childcare or updating your documents for a new role, it’s important to understand how your qualifications align with current standards. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know when registering with KiddyKare:

✅ Level 2 & Level 3 Qualifications Completed Before September 2014

If you hold a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification completed before September 2014:

Simply provide your certificate.
Our team will verify that it’s full and relevant – no additional documentation required.

📘 Level 3 Qualifications Completed After September 2014

If your Level 3 qualification was completed after September 2014, there are a few extra steps:

You must also hold a Level 2 Functional/Key Skills English certificate, or a GCSE in English Language and/or Literature at grade 4 (or grade C) or above.
Alternatively, an A Level or AS Level in English Language and/or Literature is accepted.

Important:

Without a relevant English certificate:

You will be counted as a Level 2 Practitioner.
Your pay rate will reflect Level 2 status until the correct documents are provided.

Additionally, if your qualification was gained after 30th June 2016:

You must hold a full and relevant Paediatric First Aid Certificate, or
Complete one within 3 months of starting with KiddyKare.
Please speak to our team for guidance on booking your training.

🎓 Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

If you hold QTS and started your training on or after September 2014:

Your qualification must be full and relevant to work as a Level 3 Practitioner.
To be recognised as a Level 6 Practitioner, you must hold an approved QTS, EYTS, or EYPS.

🌍 Qualifications Gained Outside the UK

If your childcare qualification was completed abroad:

It must be translated and assessed via ENIC (UK ENIC service).
This will determine the UK equivalent level of your qualification.
Further steps may be needed to make your qualification full and relevant – we’ll guide you through the process.

For further guidance and advice on qualifications needed for a new childcare role, or help with finding a new position, please get in touch with the KiddyKare team.

12 Things to Leave Off Your CV

November 12, 2025

Your CV is your first impression and we want it to land with impact. Whether you’re applying for flexible nursery shifts or a permanent role, here are 12 things that don’t need to be there.

Think of it as a tidy-up checklist before you hit send:

1. Jobs that don’t fit

That summer stint scooping ice cream? Lovely but not relevant – leave out the detail and stick to giving dates only. Expand only those role that show off your childcare or teamwork skills.

2. Irrelevant qualifications

Stick to qualifications that will support your application, keep it current and focused on the role you’re applying for.

3. Your age or date of birth

Not needed and best left out to avoid bias. Let your experience do the talking.

4. Full home address

Postcode and town are plenty. No need to include your full street details until you are moving forward with an application.

5. A profile photo

Unless you’re applying for a role that requires a picture, skip the selfie. It’s not a standard requirement in UK CVs.

6. “I” and “My”

CVs work best without personal pronouns. Instead of “I supported children,” go with “Supported children in early years settings.”

7. Funky email handles

Keep it professional. If your email includes nicknames or numbers, consider switching to something simple like firstname.lastname@gmail.com.

8. Duties without impact

Don’t just list tasks, show what you achieved. “Managed rotas” becomes “Improved rota system to reduce shift gaps.”

9. Salary expectations

Save this for later. It’s not a CV thing.

10. Random hobbies

Love baking or hiking? Great! But only include hobbies if they show off teamwork, creativity or leadership.

11. References

You don’t need to write “References available on request.” Employers will ask when they’re ready.

12. Over-the-top formatting

Skip the glitter fonts and rainbow colours. Clean, clear and easy-to-read wins every time.

Once you’ve cracked these basics your polished CV will shine among others in the recruiters inbox. Good luck with your application from the KiddyKare team!

Spooktacular Halloween Activities

October 23, 2025

Halloween isn’t just for the big kids! At KiddyKare, we know that even the tiniest pumpkins love a bit of seasonal sparkle. Whether you’re planning nursery activities or looking for ideas to try at home, here are some age-appropriate, safe and sensory-rich Halloween activities for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

👶 For Babies

1. Pumpkin patch sensory basket

Fill a basket with soft fabric pumpkins, textured leaves and baby-safe rattles in autumn colours. Let little hands explore under supervision.

2. Spooky sound bottles

Create sensory bottles with rice, googly eyes and Halloween confetti. Shake, rattle and roll for a gentle sensory experience.

3. Baby print ghosts

Dip tiny feet or hands in white paint and let them print all some black paper.

🚼 For Toddlers

1. Pumpkin scoop and explore

Let toddlers scoop out the insides of a pumpkin with spoons or hands. It’s messy, squishy and brilliant for sensory play.

2. Spider web sticky wall

Stick contact paper (sticky side out) to a wall and draw a web. Provide cotton balls, paper spiders and tissue to stick and unstick.

3. Halloween colour sorting

Use orange, black, green and purple pom-poms or blocks for a simple colour-sorting game with a spooky twist.

🧒 For Preschoolers

1. Ghost bowling

Draw ghost faces on white plastic cups and stack them. Use a soft ball to knock them down – great for motor skills and giggles!

2. Witch’s brew water play

Set up a cauldron (or water tray) with coloured water, ladles and Halloween-themed items like plastic spiders or eyeballs. Stir, scoop and pour!

3. Pumpkin stamping

Cut a small pumpkin in half, dip it in paint, and stamp onto paper. Add faces to turn them into Halloween pumpkin masterpieces.

4. Costume dress-up corner

Create a mini dress-up station with hats, capes and soft accessories. Let imaginations run wild – no scary costumes needed!

🧡 Tips for a child friendly Halloween

Keep it light and fun, avoid anything too spooky or loud.
Always supervise sensory and craft activities.
Use edible or baby-safe materials where possible.
Embrace the mess – it’s part of the magic!

Whether you’re crafting footprint ghosts or stirring up a witchy water tray, Halloween is a brilliant time to spark creativity and sensory exploration in little ones. These activities are more about giggles than ghosts and perfect for making memories that last longer than the sweets!

From Nannies to Nightmares: How We Celebrate Halloween

October 22, 2025

We all know our childcare recruitment consultants are experts at finding the perfect nursery workers and school staff. But what happens when they trade in their client calls for costumes and candy?

This year, we thought it’d be fun to peek behind the pumpkin patch and find out how the team celebrates this spooky season! We asked them about their favorite Halloween traditions, their go-to costumes, and their best trick-or-treating memories. Get ready for some frightfully good fun as they share their answers below!

Ready to find out if they prefer a scary movie night or a full-on haunted house? Keep reading and 🎃 Happy Halloween! 👻

What’s your ultimate Halloween treat and what’s a candy you’d happily trade away?

Jen: A toffee apple would be my treat, and I would trade the sticky out of date treats handed out when trick or treating!

Jodi: I’m a sucker for a mini-Twix and fizzy sweets. But if you hand me a boiled sweet… we’re trading.

Kelly: Sweets—Cadbury Nibbles included—are stacked and staying put; if I need to share, I’ll dig out something from the cupboard I don’t even like.

Emily: Ultimate Halloween treat must be a milky way (best treat any time of year!!!). I would happily give away skittles – there are much better options.

Lois: My favourite sweet has 100% got to be a pear drop, but they don’t get given out on Halloween so I will settle for a lolly. I am happy to give away a flying saucer to Emily and Jodi, seeing as they like them!

What’s been your favourite Halloween costume (past or dream one)?

Jen: My favourite Halloween costume was a witch because I loved the mysterious vibe and the chance to dress up with fun accessories like a pointed hat and a broomstick.

Jodi: Winnie the witch would an incredible future costume!

Kelly: Cat woman.

Emily: A neon skeleton, it was even glow in the dark.

Lois: I always go as a dead schoolgirl, but this year I’m doing a duo of Woody and Jessie from Toy Story, LOL!

If you had to run a nursery in a haunted house for one day, what would be your survival strategy?

Jen: I’d ensure I was working in a room surrounded by children and team members, someone else could work alone in the office!

Jodi: Keep calm, carry snacks, and distract the ghosts with a sensory tray. Bonus points if it’s filled with slime and googly eyes

Kelly: No adult to leave me by myself I’ll be dead within 5 mins.

Emily: Run fast & wait outside.

Lois: Bring in the Warren family right away!

Carving, painting, or leaving it whole – how do you decorate your pumpkin?

Jen: Carving creating new designs alongside my family, it gets competitive!

Jodi: I go full carving mode classic triangle eyes, jagged smile, and a tea light inside. It’s tradition!

Kelly: I say “carving,” but let’s be honest I’m more of the creative director. I tell my partner exactly how I want my pumpkin, and he does the carving. I’m far too much of a girly girl to get my hands dirty! As for my son, I’d let him paint his pumpkin instead – way more fun and mess-free for him.

Emily: Carving and adding a tealight candle (although my artistic skills would tell me to leave it whole!).

Lois: If you are not getting your hands dirty to carve a pumpkin, then well we cannot be friends.

What’s the funniest Halloween moment you’ve ever had?

Jen: My young son walked right up to what he thought was a witch decoration – only for it to move and reveal it was a real person!

Jodi: The drive to work at a nursery in your Halloween outfit and the car next to you at traffic lights Is looking at you oddly, then you remember you’re dressed as a skeleton!

Kelly: One Halloween, my friend said, “get ready to fight”—I said, “good luck” and bolted. Survival mode: activated.

Emily: Taking my niece trick or treating at a young age and her wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!!

Lois: When I was out with my friend and her little one realised his grandad was not collecting sweets for the kids but had both coat pockets stuffed for himself!

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to nursery staff during a busy Halloween week?

Jen: Enjoy the sugar high children after having sweets for breakfast!

Jodi: Plan themed activities, expect costume chaos, and keep the camera ready—Halloween memories are golden.

Kelly: As many Halloween messy activities you can think of. It’s the best fun!

Emily: Enjoy it! There is only a small time of year you can do something of the amazing activities linked to Halloween.

Lois: Keep up the creative activities!

If you were a Halloween creature (witch, vampire, ghost, zombie), which one would you be and why?

Jen: I would have to say a witch – I love the cackle!

Jodi: I’m a cheerful witch – organised, creative, and always ready with a spell (or a spreadsheet) to save the day.

Kelly: Vampire? All I’m saying is—have you seen Vampire Diaries? Immortality, drama, and cheekbones for days. Who wouldn’t want to be one?

Emily: Vampire, purely because of my love of Vampire Diaries!!

Lois: I think we all know that it would be a Vampire, seeing as if I could be anything in this world, it would be a vampire.

What’s your go-to cosy autumn activity after a long day at work?

Jen: Getting wrapped up and going for a walk in the crisp leaves followed by a cup of tea and biscuit!

Jodi: Hot chocolate, fluffy socks, and a good Halloween film. Bonus points if there’s a scented candle involved.

Kelly: Walking my dog admiring the different colours of leaves and watching them fall from the trees.

Emily: Cosy evenings in, with blankets and warm dinners!

Lois: Again, very clear that mine is having a tea and taking a nice long nap.

What’s your “magic power” in the office – something you’re known for?

Jen: I like to think my “magic power” in the office is creating a positive and supportive environment for the team. I enjoy working alongside everyone and helping to pull all the pieces together to keep things running smoothly.

Jodi: I’m the shift-filling sorcerer – give me a last-minute request, and I’ll conjure up the perfect candidate before you can say “boo!”

Kelly: Being cold and making good hot drinks.

Emily: Summoning top talent and banishing tech gremlins – all in a day’s witch-work.

Lois: I come in each day and make everyone laugh, because I am funny and everyone knows that, must be boring on a Tuesday girls.

What’s your favourite thing about helping nurseries and candidates find their perfect match?

Jen: The reward when both parties are happy, they have been matched together.

Jodi: It’s like solving a puzzle – when the right person lands in the right setting, it just clicks. That’s the magic. Happy staff teams and happy children.

Kelly: It’s reassuring to know I can draw from my own experience and genuinely relate to them.

Emily: Casting the perfect spell to bring the right people and places together.

Lois: Being able to help fulfil someone’s career path and making them feel welcome and happy within a setting.

The timesheet survival guide: Tips for doing it right every time

September 15, 2025

Let’s be honest, timesheets aren’t exactly the highlight of anyone’s week. But they are essential for payroll, and making sure your brilliance is recognised (and paid for!).

A few smart habits can make timesheet completion a breeze, and keep KiddyKare and the nurseries smiling!

Here are some tried and true tips to help you get it right, every time:

1. Log time daily (don’t wait until Friday!)

It takes two minutes a day but saves hours of backtracking.
Daily logging ensures accuracy – you know what you did, not what you think you did.
This will also help in case of any cancellations or sickness.

2. Be clear and precise

Use nursery names clearly – ask someone if you’re not sure it’s correct or how to spell it. This also goes for the names of the management team who sign your timesheet – if in doubt let them write their name!
Detail the hours done, not forgetting to add on your lunch break.
Try and make your timesheet as clear as possible, so our payroll team and the nursery teams can read it accurately. If it can’t be read clearly, it will have to be sent back to you – which will in turn delay payroll.

Top Tip: Completing the daily and weekly total at the bottom of your timesheet also ensures no mistakes are made for payroll. Though please do ensure this is correct.

3. Respect deadlines

Timesheets aren’t optional; they’re how we all get paid and keep the agency running.
Submit your hours before the cut-off time every week (Monday at 12pm) – no exceptions – so you are paid on time.

4. Double-check before you hit “submit”

A quick review avoids rework and corrections later.
Make sure your total hours look correct and nothing is missing.
Double-check all calculations using a calculator, addition in your head is harder some days than others.

5. Ask if you’re unsure

If something is unclear, no matter what it is, always ask. The KiddyKare team is here to support you.
It’s always better to ask than assume.

Top Tip: Think of your timesheet as your professional diary. It tells the story of what you delivered and when you delivered it. It’s what you’ll need if you have any questions or queries about any of your payslips.

By keeping on top of recording your time, double-checking details, and ensuring timely submission – you can help play your part in keeping the system running smoothly, making timesheets one of the easiest parts of our week!

A day in the life of Kelly – Our Childcare Recruitment Consultant

September 15, 2025

You may think you know what a day in the life of a recruitment consultant looks like, but when you throw in a toddler and early mornings, things start to look a little different.

KiddyKare’s very own Kelly shares what a typical day looks like juggling a bustling career with the demands of motherhood. From early morning cuddles with her son, to powering through compliance checks and candidate sourcing, her day is a masterclass in efficiency and heart.

Read on to get an exclusive look at Kelly’s routine and see how she makes it all work.

Morning Routine

6:00 AM: Get Archie from his cot and start the day with cuddles.

6:45 AM: Drop him off at the nanny’s house.

Workday

7:15 AM: Arrive at the KiddyKare office and make coffee for Jodi and Emily.

7:30 AM: Check emails, especially compliance-related ones.

8:00 AM: Split compliance tasks with Lois.

8:30 AM: Work on resourcing, contact new candidates, gather details, begin sign-up or hand over to Emily for perm roles.

9:00 AM: Catch up with Lois on temp placements and plan coverage.

10:00 AM: Complete ID checks.

12:00 PM: After a busy morning it’s time for a lunch break.

1:00 PM: Pre-reg outreach via email, calls, or texts (alternate daily).

2:00 PM: More compliance checks, reference requests and resourcing.

3:30 PM: Handover with Lois on temps.

3:45 PM: Final email check before finishing at 4:00 PM.

Evening Routine

5:00 PM: Playtime with Archie and start dinner.

6:30 PM: Get Archie ready for bed.

7:00 PM: Put him down to sleep.

7:30 PM: Relax and unwind.

9:30 PM: Final wind-down before bed.

Thanks for joining us for a day in the life of Kelly! We hope her story inspires you. If you’re passionate about a career in childcare and want to find a role that fits your life, just like Kelly has, we’d love to help.

If you’re ready to find your dream job in childcare get in touch with KiddyKare today.

Call us on: 01628 675828

Browse our latest childcare jobs

Or send us an enquiry

Top tips for starting secondary school: A guide for children and families

August 28, 2025

Starting secondary school marks a major milestone in a child’s life – and it’s a big moment for families too. New subjects, fresh routines, unfamiliar faces… it’s exciting, yes, but also a little daunting. To help smooth the transition and ease those first day jitters, here are some tips for both children and their families.

Tips for children

Embrace the change
Secondary school means more independence, more subjects, and more responsibility. Keep an open mind and view it as an adventure – you’re about to discover new interests and talents!
Get organised early
Use a planner or homework diary to keep track of assignments, PE kits and after-school clubs. Knowing what’s coming up in advance will help you feel confident and in control.
Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re unsure about something. Teachers, older students, and staff are there to help you, plus you’re not expected to know everything on day one.
Make friends
You don’t need to find your “best friend forever” straight away. A smile, a hello and a bit of shared laughter go a long way. Be kind, be yourself and friendships will form. All the other students will be in the same situation as you and will always welcome your kindness!
Take care of yourself
Get enough sleep, eat a good breakfast and talk to someone if you’re feeling worried. Starting something new is always a little scary but you’ve got this.

Tips for families

Keep communication open
Regular chats about how school is going, even just five minutes over dinner, can reveal loads. Show interest without grilling and be ready to listen without rushing in with advice.
Help build routines
A consistent morning and bedtime routine gives structure and sets the tone for the day. Encourage packing bags the night before and setting out uniforms to ease stress.
Be supportive, not overbearing
It’s tempting to hover, but secondary school is about growing independence. Let them handle challenges; while knowing you’re always nearby with a safety net.
Know the school
Attend parent evenings, follow the school newsletter and get to know key teachers. When you understand how the school operates, you can help your child navigate it better.
Celebrate progress
Starting secondary school is a huge leap. Acknowledge efforts, praise resilience, and celebrate the small wins like remembering a timetable or trying a new subject will help your child build confidence.

Final thought

Starting secondary school is a journey, one with twists, turns, triumphs, and stumbles. With support and patience, it can be a wonderful chapter for families to grow together.

So, take a deep breath, give a reassuring smile, and get ready for lift-off into this exciting new phase.

Make a lasting impact: How flexible nursery practitioners can shine from day one

August 28, 2025

Whether you’re walking into a nursery for the first time or returning to a familiar setting, as a flexible Nursery Practitioner from a staffing agency, every day is a chance to impress. You’re not just filling a gap – you’re bringing warmth, expertise, and adaptability to a team that needs it. So how do you make that first impression count and continue to stand out?

Start strong with a good first impression

Your first few minutes in a nursery matter. Here’s how to nail it:

Be punctual: Arriving early shows commitment and reliability.
Dress professionally and practically: In addition to your KiddyKare uniform, think comfortable, nursery-appropriate attire that aligns with KiddyKare’s uniform and makes a smart impression.
Smile and introduce yourself confidently: Make eye contact, try to learn names quickly and show genuine enthusiasm.
Know your brief: Understand the nursery’s expectations for the day. Ask questions if needed – it shows initiative and will be supportive when they’re busy.

Cultivate trust with children and staff

Building quick rapport is a superpower of successful nursery practitioners:

Use warmth and consistency with children: Familiar routines, gentle encouragement and playful interactions go a long way.
Support permanent staff proactively: Offer help before being asked, anticipate needs and work collaboratively.
Stay open to feedback: Being coachable is highly valued, take feedback on board and put it into action next time.
Showcase your flexibility and skillset: As an agency professional, your adaptability is your secret weapon:
Step into different roles gracefully: Be ready to lead a circle time, prep snacks, manage transitions and clean a table or floor if needed.
Bring your experience into play: Share creative activities and strategies that you know work well in other settings.
Stay calm in the chaos: Nurseries can be unpredictable – your ability to stay positive, adapt quickly and composed is priceless.

Keep growing, keep shining

Long-term success isn’t just about your first day – it’s about consistency and growth:

Stay updated on best practices: Engage in training and refresh your knowledge of safeguarding, EYFS and first aid.
Reflect and improve: After each placement, take stock of what worked well and where you can tweak.
Build relationships with your agency team and nurseries: Great impressions lead to repeat bookings and glowing reviews.

Being a flexible Nursery Practitioner isn’t just a job – it’s an art. You’re stepping into diverse environments with grace, skill and a smile, helping each nursery thrive for the day or the long haul. That’s not just impressive – it’s invaluable.

If you’re a Nursery Practitioner looking for their next role, get in touch with the KiddyKare team or take a look at our current vacancies.

Call us on 01628 675828.

Morning routine

Workday begins

Afternoon tasks

Evening routine

1. Tailor your CV to the setting

2. Make your personal statement count

3. Know your EYFS (or Curriculum!)

4. Keep your online presence professional

5. Prep for interview questions

6. Follow up with warmth

7. Stay positive and reflective

8. Let your personality shine

✅ Level 2 & Level 3 Qualifications Completed Before September 2014

📘 Level 3 Qualifications Completed After September 2014

Important:

🎓 Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

🌍 Qualifications Gained Outside the UK

1. Jobs that don’t fit

2. Irrelevant qualifications

3. Your age or date of birth

4. Full home address

5. A profile photo

6. “I” and “My”

7. Funky email handles

8. Duties without impact

9. Salary expectations

10. Random hobbies

11. References

12. Over-the-top formatting

👶 For Babies

🚼 For Toddlers

🧒 For Preschoolers

🧡 Tips for a child friendly Halloween

What’s your ultimate Halloween treat and what’s a candy you’d happily trade away?

What’s been your favourite Halloween costume (past or dream one)?

If you had to run a nursery in a haunted house for one day, what would be your survival strategy?

Carving, painting, or leaving it whole – how do you decorate your pumpkin?

What’s the funniest Halloween moment you’ve ever had?

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to nursery staff during a busy Halloween week?

If you were a Halloween creature (witch, vampire, ghost, zombie), which one would you be and why?

What’s your go-to cosy autumn activity after a long day at work?

What’s your “magic power” in the office – something you’re known for?

What’s your favourite thing about helping nurseries and candidates find their perfect match?

1. Log time daily (don’t wait until Friday!)

2. Be clear and precise

3. Respect deadlines

4. Double-check before you hit “submit”

5. Ask if you’re unsure

Morning Routine

Workday

Evening Routine

Tips for children

Tips for families

Final thought

Start strong with a good first impression

Cultivate trust with children and staff

Keep growing, keep shining

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