A nursery assistant helps to care for young children, usually from birth to five years old, in a nursery or early years setting. The role involves supporting qualified nursery nurses and practitioners by helping with feeding, changing nappies, organising activities, and ensuring a safe and stimulating environment. Nursery assistants also help children develop basic social and learning skills, encourage play, and observe children's progress. Good communication skills, patience, and a caring nature are essential for this role. Many nursery assistants work towards further qualifications in childcare while gaining practical experience.
Nursery assistants in the UK typically earn between £16,000 and £22,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
According to job market data, there were over 25,000 nursery assistant positions advertised across the UK in 2023.
Most nursery assistants work around 37 hours per week, usually on a shift basis to cover early mornings and late afternoons.
Support young children in a Montessori nursery setting, helping them learn through play, practical activities and guided discovery.
Work specifically with babies aged from birth to two years, focusing on their development, comfort and daily care routines within a nursery.
Assist young children with special educational needs or disabilities in a nursery environment, providing tailored support and encouragement.
Learn about the daily tasks and responsibilities of a Nursery Assistant.
Nursery Assistants are responsible for helping children with personal care, organising play activities, and supporting learning through play. They also help with setting up and tidying away equipment, and sometimes prepare snacks for the children. Reading job descriptions online or talking to people who work in nurseries can give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
Arrange visits to nurseries to observe the environment and speak to staff.
Many nurseries welcome visitors who are interested in a career in childcare. Observing the setting and speaking to current Nursery Assistants can help you decide if this is the right career for you. Ask about typical working hours, the support available, and the types of children they work with.
Complete a Level 2 Certificate in Childcare or an equivalent qualification.
While you may be able to start as a Nursery Assistant without formal qualifications, most employers look for a Level 2 Certificate for the Children and Young People's Workforce or similar. Some roles may also require GCSEs in English and Maths. You can study these qualifications at colleges or through apprenticeships.
Volunteer or work part-time in a nursery or childcare setting.
Hands-on experience is valuable in this field. You could volunteer at local nurseries, after-school clubs, or community playgroups. This will help you develop the skills needed and strengthen your CV. Experience working with young children is often essential when applying for paid positions.
Create a CV highlighting your relevant qualifications and experience.
Your CV should clearly show any childcare qualifications, work experience, and relevant skills such as communication, patience, and teamwork. References from placements, voluntary work, or previous employers can help support your application.
Search for Nursery Assistant vacancies and attend interviews.
Look for job openings on nursery websites, local council job boards, and recruitment sites. When invited to interview, be prepared to discuss your experience with children, your understanding of safeguarding, and scenarios where you have supported children’s learning and wellbeing.
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 and a Nursery worker both involve caring for young children in a nursery or childcare setting. They require similar qualifications, skills in child development, and a focus on providing a safe and 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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