- sensitivity and understanding
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- excellent verbal communication skills
- customer service skills
- thinking and reasoning skills
- the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
In this role you may:
- plan and supervise activities like arts and crafts, music and cooking
- help children to learn numeracy and language skills through games
- take part in singing, role play and story telling
- take children on outings
- feed and change babies
- observe children and make notes to write reports
- make sure children are safe and well
- speak with parents, carers and other nursery staff
You may need to wear a uniform.
You could work in a nursery.
As an experienced nursery worker you could specialise in working with children who have difficulties with learning, physical disabilities, or need support with their mental health.
You could take a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification to progress to room leader, senior nursery worker or centre manager.
You could also study towards a higher education qualification in early years or child development. You could then move into management or early years teaching.
You'll find advice on careers and courses in childcare from the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years and the National Day Nurseries Association.
You can also get more information on this career from the early years career progression map.
