Childcare & Early Years Careers for Young People

• Growth Potential: Vacancies have surged, up 146% since pre-pandemic levels, driven by the government's expanded childcare entitlement. The sector needs an estimated 40,000 extra workers, with 93% of nurseries reporting a need for more Level 3 qualified practitioners.
• Opportunities in Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk (E/H/S): Local nurseries, pre-schools, childminders, children's centres, and out-of-school clubs offer plentiful entry points across the region.
• Earning Potential: Entry-level early years practitioner roles start at £18,000–£21,500, with experienced room leaders and nursery managers earning £24,000–£32,000+.

Childcare and early years supports babies and young children to learn, play, feel safe and develop confidence. Work can happen in nurseries, pre-schools, childminding, children’s centres and wraparound care, with clear routes into specialist or leadership roles.

Vacancies appear to be rising year on year (around +11.9%). That is roughly 8k more vacancies than the comparison period. The latest vacancy estimate is about 75k. This suggests there may be more openings, but it is still worth checking local employers and entry routes.

Not sure where to begin? Take our strengths-first career discovery to find early years roles that match your talents, or browse our job board for entry-level positions in Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk. Apprenticeships in childcare are widely available, and Level 2/3 qualifications provide a clear route into practice and management.