A pre-school (often called a nursery or pre-school setting) provides early education and care for children aged 2 to 5 years, usually before they start reception. Pre-schools support children’s learning, development, wellbeing, and school readiness through play-based experiences.
Key roles in a pre-school
Pre-schools employ staff with different responsibilities, including:
Typical responsibilities
Regardless of role, pre-school staff usually:
- Create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment
- Support children’s learning through play
- Follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework
- Promote inclusion, equality, and positive behaviour
- Work closely with parents and carers
- Follow safeguarding and child protection procedures
- Maintain hygiene, health, and safety standards Working in partnership with other professionals/agencies
Essential skills and qualities
Working in a pre-school requires:
- Patience and empathy
- Strong communication skills
- Teamwork and reliability
- Ability to build positive relationships with children
- Understanding of child development
- Confidence in safeguarding and welfare
- Organisational and observation skills
Qualifications and training (UK)
Common qualifications include:
- Full and relevant Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification
- Paediatric First Aid (mandatory)
- Safeguarding training
- GCSEs in English (or equivalent). Check EY qualification and standards document for full details Managers must have at least a full and relevant level 3 qualification and a level 2 maths qualification or must achieve this within 2 years of starting work.
- Early years qualification requirements and standards
Some roles may require:
- Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS)
- Leadership or management qualifications (e.g. Level 5)
An enhanced DBS check is essential for all staff.
Working hours and environment
- Settings may be sessional or full-day
- Hours often cover school terms, though some are year-round
- Work is active and hands-on (indoors and outdoors)
- Ratios are legally defined (e.g. 1:8 for 3 to 4 year-olds)
Rewards and challenges
Rewards
- Watching children grow and develop
- Building strong bonds with families
- Making a real difference in children’s lives
- High job satisfaction for those passionate about early years
Challenges
- Physically demanding work
- Emotional responsibility
- Managing behaviour and additional needs
- Paperwork and inspections (e.g. Ofsted)
Career progression
With experience and training, staff can progress to:
- Room leader
- SENCO
- Deputy manager or manager
- Early years teacher
- Quality improvement or advisory roles