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

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.

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.

There’s something uniquely rewarding about working in childcare, it’s not just a job, it’s a calling. At KiddyKare, we know how thrilling (and a little nerve-wracking) it can be when you’re starting out. Whether you’re fresh out of training or just starting your career, getting your first childcare job is a milestone worth celebrating. Let KiddyKare help you make it a successful step.

Your First Childcare Role

Your first position in childcare is more than just a stepping stone, it’s where you begin shaping young minds, building trust with families, and gaining hands-on experience that will carry you forward. Employers aren’t just looking for qualifications; they want passion, reliability, and a real connection to childcare.  That’s what we look for too in our candidates.

What We Look For in Candidates

As a childcare recruitment agency, we’re your biggest cheerleaders and matchmakers. We help you present your best self by focusing on:

• Genuine Enthusiasm: A warm smile and eager attitude go a long way in interviews.
• Transferable Skills: Experience from babysitting, volunteering, or even customer service can demonstrate your ability to communicate and stay calm under pressure.
• Relevant Training: Putting yourself through training such as safeguarding, first aid, and child development make your application shine.
• Presentation: We’ll guide you on everything from interview attire to interview questions. We can even tweak your CV if you need us too.

Preparing for Success

Even if you’ve never worked formally in childcare, preparation is key:

• Ask Questions: Interviews go both ways. Ask about team culture, training opportunities, and room for growth.
• Know Your Why: Be ready to share what inspires you about working with children.
• Practice Common Scenarios: What would you do if a toddler threw a tantrum? Roleplay helps you get comfortable responding thoughtfully.
• Research: Explore the company’s website to show genuine interest and initiative in learning about your potential workplace. Revisit the job advertisement and carefully review the qualities and skills they’re seeking, this allows you to align your application with each requirement and make a stronger impression.

Your Path Starts Here

We believe every candidate has something special to offer. Whether you’re looking for a role in a nursery, pre-school, or a school, we work closely with employers who value great talent. Our mission? To help you find that first opportunity where your skills and personality will thrive.

Starting your childcare career isn’t just about landing a job, it’s about embracing a journey of care, creativity, and lifelong impact. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Are you ready to find the right fit? Let’s get started. 💼✨

Call KiddyKare today on 01628675828 or email Info@KiddyKare.co.uk

We’ve all been there – you’re looking for the perfect childcare role or searching for that ideal candidate to join your nursery team, and you’re interacting with a recruitment agency. But who are the voices on the other end of the phone? What makes them tick? Here at KiddyKare Solutions, we believe that building great relationships starts with understanding each other. That’s why we’ve put our fantastic team of recruitment consultants in the hot seat for a fun Q&A session!

Get ready to discover the personalities behind the placements as we dive into everything from their favourite childhood summer holiday memories to their dream travel destinations. You might be surprised by what you learn! Let’s get to know the team:

Jen: Our Director

Q: What is your favorite summer memory from your childhood?

A: Sunny holidays playing on the beach with my family. I have always loved water, including watersports.

Q: Would you pick Ice cream or an ice lolly?

A: Ice cream every time a double gold caramel billionaire

Q: What’s one thing you’re really looking forward to doing this summer?

A: Quality time away in the sunshine with my family making more memories!

Q: Would you pick to watch a Sunrise or a sunset?

A: Sunset on a warm evening

Q: If the office had a beach day, who would win at sandcastle building?

A: Errr, yes, well my competitive streak would give it a good go!

Q: What’s the best place you’ve ever travelled to in the UK during summer?

A: I really love Devon or West Wittering!

Q: What’s one place in the world you’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t yet?

A: I would love to go to South Africa and go on a Safari

Q: If you could work remotely anywhere in the world during summer, where would it be and why?

A: A lovely beach in Australia, a tea break dip in the pool!

Q: What’s the best way to bring summer energy into the workplace?

A: A mid-day walk enjoying the outdoors, making the most of the longer evenings at the end of the day to unwind.

Q: If you could take a road trip across one country, which one would it be?

A: Travelling from Chicago to Los Angeles ‘Route 66’ in a Winnebago!

Jodi: Our Recruitment Manager

Q: What is your favourite summer memory from your childhood?

A: A seaside caravan holiday – simple pleasures.

Q: Would you pick Ice cream or an ice lolly?

A: Ice cream forever! A classic Mr Whippy with strawberry sauce will always be my top choice.

Q: What’s one thing you’re really looking forward to doing this summer?

A: I think soaking up the buzz of warm longer days, chasing sunsets, exploring hidden beaches or walks and the carefree energy that comes with summer.

Q: Would you pick to watch a Sunrise or a sunset?

A; I am partial to starting the day early with a sunrise, to set yourself up for a positive day.

Q: If the office had a beach day, who would win at sandcastle building?

A: I’d like to say myself as I am a perfectionist, but probably Lois as I don’t think she would give up until she won!

Q: What’s the best place you’ve ever travelled to in the UK during summer?

A: I think Cornwall will always be my favourite as everywhere you turn is so picturesque.

Q: What’s one place you’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t yet?

A: There are too many to list but if I had to pick one I’d love to travel Sri Lanka.

Q: If you could work remotely anywhere in the world during summer, where would it be and why?

A: I would pick somewhere warm but if I had to pick a specific place, I’d choose America. So, I could travel to different places within the country at the same time.

Q: What’s the best way to bring summer energy into the workplace?

A: No jumpers or coats, summer dresses and sunny lunch time walks!

Q: If you could take a road trip across one country, which one would it be?

A: I would love to return to Australia a do another road trip The Explorer’s Way.

Lois: Our Trainee Recruitment Consultant

Q: What is your favourite summer memory from your childhood?

A: Going to my nans in Spain with whole family

Q: Would you pick Ice cream or an ice lolly?

A: Ice lolly

Q: What’s one thing you’re really looking forward to doing this summer?

A: Skydive

Q: Would you pick to watch a Sunrise or a sunset?

A: Sunset

Q: If the office had a beach day, who would win at sandcastle building?

A: Myself

Q: What’s the best place you’ve ever travelled to in the UK during summer?

A: Cornwall

Q: What’s one place in the world you’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t yet?

A: Thailand

Q: If you could work remotely anywhere in the world during summer, where would it be and why?

A: Australia as it would be hot all the time, and could be there, but also travel around

Q: What’s the best way to bring summer energy into the workplace?

A: Good vibes, good plans made, summer clothes

Q: If you could take a road trip across one country, which one would it be?

A: Route 66

Emily: Our Recruitment Consultant

Q: What is your favorite summer memory from your childhood?

A: Visiting Hayling Island with my family and spending the day at the funfair and eating seaside doughnuts.

Q: Would you pick Ice cream or an ice lolly?

A: Ice cream – Mr Whippy with strawberry sauce will always be my favourite!

Q: What’s one thing you’re really looking forward to doing this summer?

A: Going on a beach day to West Wittering’s to enjoy the sandy beach.

Q: Would you pick to watch a Sunrise or a sunset?

A: Sunset! As the worst morning person you will probably ever interact with, I think the evening sunset would be much more enjoyable for me, and others around me!

Q: If the office had a beach day, who would win at sandcastle building?

A: Jodi, for sure!!! Charlotte would be in close running though.

Q: What’s the best place you’ve ever travelled to in the UK during summer?

A: St Ives in Cornwall – such a lovely place to explore!!

Q: What’s one place in the world you’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t yet?

A: I would love to visit and explore Japan.

Q: If you could work remotely anywhere in the world during summer, where would it be and why?

A: On a warm beach somewhere very quiet where I have constant cold drinks bought to me.

Q: What’s the best way to bring summer energy into the workplace?

A:Bringing the summer scent into the office wearing my suncream.

Q: If you could take a road trip across one country, which one would it be?

A: It would have to be Australia, there is so much to explore and some many different environments.

Charlotte: Our Recruitment Consultant

Q: What is your favorite summer memory from your childhood?

A: Holidays to Spain, playing out till the streetlights came on

Q: Would you pick Ice cream or an ice lolly?

A: Ice lolly

Q: What’s one thing you’re really looking forward to doing this summer?

A: Going on holiday

Q: Would you pick to watch a Sunrise or a sunset?

A: Sunset

Q: If the office had a beach day, who would win at sandcastle building?

A: Probably Jodi but I would knock hers down, so I win

Q: What’s the best place you’ve ever travelled to in the UK during summer?

A: Ipswich to see Ed Sheeran

Q: What’s one place in the world you’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t yet?

A: New York or Scarborough

Q: If you could work remotely anywhere in the world during summer, where would it be and why?

A: By the pool in a hot country

Q: What’s the best way to bring summer energy into the workplace?

A: Cake

Q: If you could take a road trip across one country, which one would it be?

A: America

Now that you’ve had a glimpse into what makes us tick, why not pick up the phone and give us a call? Whether you’re a candidate looking for your next role or a nursery searching for exceptional childcare professionals, we’re ready to chat.

You can reach us directly on 01628 675828. We look forward to hearing from you!

Summer is here, the kids are home and the challenge begins of keeping them entertained, engaged and away from screens for at least part of the day!

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, creative projects or ways to sneak in some learning, there are plenty of ways to make the summer holidays fun and memorable for both you and your children. Here are a few tried and tested favourites from the KiddyKare team.

1. Explore the great outdoors

Make the most of the warm weather by embracing nature:

• Go on a nature scavenger hunt – Create a list of items with your children of what they think they can find (a feather, a uniquely shaped leaf, a smooth rock) and set off on an adventure to find them.
• Try camping – Whether you head to a local campsite or pitch a tent in your garden, a night under the stars is always exciting.
• Visit a new open space – Take advantage of a sunny day by spending the day outdoors, take the bikes and a picnic for a day of outdoor fun!

2. Get creative with arts and crafts

Let their imagination run wild:

• Try DIY tie-dye – A fun and colourful way to transform an old t-shirt!
• Make a summer scrapbook – Capture memories with photos, drawings and notes about your favourite days. You can even use tickets or leaflets for anywhere you might have visited.
• Create a cardboard castle – Save those delivery boxes and transform them into forts or houses that you can decorate all day.

3. Cook up some fun in the kitchen

Kids love getting hands-on in the kitchen, so let them help you whip up some summer treats:

• Make homemade ice lollies – Blend up their favourite fruit and juice, pour it into moulds and freeze.
• DIY pizza night – Let them pick the toppings to create their very own Italian masterpiece.
• Bake and decorate cookies – Use icing, sprinkles and toppings for some colourful creations.

4. Learning activities

Keep their brains engaged while they have fun:

• Visit museums – Choose new museums or one that relates to their favourite interests.
• Start a summer reading challenge – Set a goal and reward them for completing books.
• Try DIY science experiments – Make a volcano with baking soda and vinegar or create slime.

5. Take advantage of local events

Many areas run free or low-cost activities during the summer:

• Check out any local summer events – Many places host movie screenings and events for children over the summer. You’ll find plenty of organised fun at venues such as local open air museums, farm parks, gardens, or National Trust properties.
• Visit local markets – Visit a local market and let them find the ingredients you need for dinner that night.
• Join summer sports activities – Find football, tennis or swimming lessons.

6. Plan a “Yes Day”

Let your children take charge for a day (within reason, of course). Say “yes” to their reasonable requests, maybe it’s breakfast for dinner, a picnic in the living room or wearing costumes to the supermarket.

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.

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. 

 

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.