A nursery assistant works with young children, usually up to the age of five, in a nursery or early years setting. The main duties include helping children learn through play, organising activities, ensuring the children are safe and well cared for, and supporting their physical and emotional development. Nursery assistants also help with feeding, changing, and supervising nap times. They work closely with nursery nurses, teachers, and parents to create a nurturing environment. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working with children and are patient, cheerful, and energetic. No formal qualifications are strictly required to start, but many employers look for GCSEs (or equivalent) and experience with children. Progression to more senior roles is possible with further training.
The typical salary for a nursery assistant in the UK ranges from £16,000 to £21,000 per year, depending on location and experience.
There are over 80,000 people employed as nursery assistants or similar roles in the UK, with demand remaining steady as early years education is a growth area.
Most nursery assistants work 35 to 40 hours per week, often on a shift or rota basis to cover nursery opening hours.
Work closely with children who have learning difficulties or disabilities in a nursery setting, providing tailored support to help them develop and thrive.
Focus on caring for and supporting babies and very young children, helping with feeding, changing, and early learning activities in a dedicated baby room within a nursery.
Lead and supervise outdoor activities and learning experiences for nursery-aged children, encouraging physical development and exploration of the natural environment.
Obtain at least GCSEs in English and Maths, usually at grades 9 to 4 (A to C), as these are basic entry requirements for most nursery assistant roles.
Some nurseries may accept applicants without formal qualifications, but having English and Maths GCSEs will make you more competitive and is often required for further training. Consider functional skills courses as alternatives if you do not have GCSEs.
Study for a relevant childcare qualification, such as a Level 1 or Level 2 Certificate in Childcare, Early Years, or a similar subject.
Courses can be taken at local colleges or through apprenticeships. Level 2 qualifications are particularly valued and may be required for permanent positions. These courses cover topics like child development, safeguarding, and health and safety.
Gain hands-on experience by volunteering at a nursery, playgroup, or with a local childcare provider.
Experience working with young children will enhance your CV and help you develop key skills such as communication, patience, and teamwork. Some childcare courses also require work placements, so look for opportunities to combine learning and practical experience.
Focus on building skills like communication, empathy, and reliability when working with children and colleagues.
Nursery assistants need to be approachable, understanding, and able to work well with both children and adults. Take every opportunity to observe and learn from experienced staff during your placements or volunteering.
Look for nursery assistant vacancies at local nurseries, schools, and early years centres, and submit your applications.
Prepare a CV highlighting your qualifications and experience. Check local council websites, online job boards, and nursery group websites for vacancies. Be ready to complete a DBS check as part of the recruitment process.
Practise answering interview questions and demonstrate your understanding of child development and safeguarding.
Employers often ask about your motivation for working with children, your experience in similar roles, and how you would handle specific situations. Research common interview questions and prepare examples from your experience.
Nursery nurses have more responsibility than assistants and often hold qualifications such as an NVQ Level 3 in Childcare. They plan and lead activities and may supervise nursery assistants.
Teaching assistants support teachers in primary and secondary schools, helping children learn and develop. They may work with individual pupils or small groups.
Childminders care for children in their own home, providing a safe and stimulating environment. They are self-employed and registered with Ofsted.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Nursery Assistant. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Nursery Assistant is most closely aligned with a Nursery worker because both roles involve caring for and supporting young children within early years settings. They typically require similar qualifications and skills related to child development, supervision, and creating a safe, nurturing environment.
You can get into this job through:
You can take a college course before looking for work in a nursery.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do an Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, or an Early Years Educator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
These take between 1 and 2 years to complete and combine training on the job and time spent with a learning provider.
Find out more about early years apprenticeships.
You'll usually need:
You can work as a nursery assistant and learn on the job. You'll usually need GCSEs in maths and English to start. Your employer may offer you the opportunity to do formal training like an apprenticeship, as your skills develop.
You can get experience by volunteering at a local nursery group or after school club. This may lead into paid work, where you could do training on the job.
You can apply directly for jobs in a nursery if you've got experience of working with young children and a qualification in childcare.
A paediatric first aid certificate will be useful but is not essential.
You can find out more about working in childcare from Early Years Careers and the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY).
You can contact Early Years Careers by phone or email to get answers to questions about starting a career in early years education.
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