Nursery nurses
and assistants

Description

Nursery nurses and assistants care for children from birth up to seven years of age in day or residential nurseries, children’s homes, maternity units and similar establishments.

Tasks

• baths, dresses, prepares feed for and feeds babies, changes babies clothing whenever necessary
• supervises young children at mealtimes
• plans and organises games and other activities and supervises children’s play
• reads stories, organises counting games to help develop language and number skills
• writes reports on children’s development and maintains awareness of health and safety issues
• communicates with parents and colleagues on children’s development and well-being.

Educational Requirements

Entry is most common with GCSEs/S grades followed by the award of a certificate from the Council for Awards in Children’s Care and Education. An NVQ/SVQ in Child Care and Education or equivalent qualification at level 3 is required to work as a nursery nurse. CRB clearance is mandatory.