September is often seen as a time for fresh starts. Children head back to school, nurseries welcome new families, and education settings begin a new academic year. But it is not just children and families preparing for a new chapter. September can also be the perfect time to take the next step in your childcare career.
Whether you are a qualified Early Years Practitioner looking for a new challenge, a Teaching Assistant ready for a change, or you are considering starting a career in childcare and education – the beginning of a new academic year can bring exciting opportunities.
Why is September a good time to look for a childcare job?
The start of a new academic year can be a particularly busy period for childcare and education settings. Staffing needs can change, new children may be joining a setting, and nurseries and schools are often looking to strengthen their teams.
This can make September a wonderful time to start exploring your options.
1. A fresh start for your career
Sometimes, all it takes is a change of environment to reignite your enthusiasm for your career.
If you have been thinking about moving to a new nursery, exploring a different role or taking the next step in your career, September gives you a natural opportunity to make that change.
A new setting can introduce you to different approaches, new colleagues and fresh professional challenges; all of which can help you develop your skills and experience.
2. There are opportunities across childcare and education
One of the wonderful things about working in childcare and education is the variety of roles available.
Depending on your qualifications and experience, career opportunities exist as:
- Early Years Practitioners
- Room Leaders
- Deputy Managers
- Nursery Managers
- Teaching Assistants
- Early Years Teachers
- Support roles within schools and nurseries
- Temporary and permanent positions
You do not necessarily have to follow a single career path. Your experience working with children can open the door to a range of opportunities as your career develops.
3. September is an exciting time to reassess your career goals
The new academic year is a useful reminder to stop and ask yourself: Am I where I want to be in my career?
Are you looking for more responsibility. Would you like to gain experience in a different type of setting. Or are you returning to childcare after taking some time away.
Whatever your circumstances, September is a good opportunity to think about what you want from your next role.
Ask yourself:
- What do I enjoy most about my current role?
- What skills would I like to develop?
- Would I like more responsibility?
- Do I want to work with a particular age group?
- Would I prefer a nursery, school, or another educational setting?
- Am I looking for permanent, temporary, or flexible work?
- What would make me happier in my next role?
Having a clear idea of what you are looking for can make your job search much more focused.
4. Your experience matters
You do not always need years of experience to take the next step.
If you are newly qualified, September can be an exciting time to put your training into practice. If you have already worked in childcare for several years, your experience could make you a strong candidate for a more senior position.
And if you have taken a career break, do not underestimate the value of your previous experience.
The childcare sector needs enthusiastic, committed people who genuinely want to have an influence on children’s lives.
5. Your CV could be the key to your next opportunity
If you are considering a new role this September, make sure your CV is compelling and up to date.
Highlight your relevant qualifications, experience, and responsibilities, but do not forget to demonstrate what makes you a great childcare professional.
Think about including examples of:
- Your experience working with children
- Safeguarding responsibilities
- Planning and supporting activities.
- Collaborating with parents and carers
- Supporting children’s development
- Teamwork and communication
- Additional training or qualifications
- Any leadership or mentoring experience
Most importantly, make sure your CV reflects the type of role you are looking for.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask for support
Searching for a new job can feel overwhelming, particularly when you are already working full-time.
This is where working with a specialist childcare recruitment agency can make a real difference.
At KiddyKare, we understand the childcare and education sector and work with candidates to help connect them with suitable opportunities.
Rather than spending hours searching through vacancies that may not be right for you, you can speak to a recruitment team that understands your experience, qualifications and career goals to help find you the best match.
Ready for your next opportunity?
A new academic year does not just mean a fresh start for children and settings. It can be the beginning of an exciting new chapter for your career too.
Whether you are looking for your first role in childcare, a new challenge or the next step up the career ladder, September is the perfect time to start exploring what is out there.
Ready to take the next step? Contact KiddyKare today and explore the latest childcare and education opportunities. Speak to a member of our friendly team on 01628 675828.
Author: Jodi Walden
