Childcare Works, a programme enabling people to become Trainee Support Workers (TSWs) by offering bespoke introductory childcare training has launched in Scotland.

The Childcare Works programme is being funded by East Ayrshire Local Employability Partnership and will begin 11 March until 28 June 2024. The programme will deliver one-to-one coaching to eight trainee support workers aged 17 or over. 

National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Scotland will be supporting participants across East Ayrshire, who are not in education or employment by creating a training pathway to a career in early learning and childcare.  Previous experience of working in a childcare environment is not required as candidates are identified based on aptitude, informal experience of childcare and a willingness to undertake training.  

NDNA’s Childcare Works project has been implemented successfully in Wales for over five years.

Childcare Works programme is a 16-week programme focusing on practical skills and placement experience which includes support and mentoring by NDNA. It will also give earl years providers a new way to develop and find new talent.

To qualify to be a provider placement setting for the Childcare Works programme, a setting must be able to provide a suitable job role for a candidate for 12 weeks.

No One Left Behind

This programme addresses the Scottish Government’s goals for the ‘No One Left Behind’ strategy.

The approach aims to improve employment support across Scotland and tackle child poverty while developing a system that is more tailored to the unique needs of people of all ages.

Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Scotland said: “We are delighted that East Ayrshire will be the first area in Scotland to have a Childcare Works project thanks to the support of the local council.

“The sector is currently facing a workforce crisis and the need for it to grow with experienced, professional staff to deliver the high-quality early learning and childcare that our youngest children need and deserve is more important than ever.

“This project encourages people who might have never considered a career in the early years sector to benefit from a supported, practical placement and training pathway to becoming a nursery assistant. We want to work with participants to give them the opportunity to develop their skills and then put these into practice with rewarding work placements. 

“We are looking for nurseries across East Ayrshire who are interested in a recruitment opportunity and can offer a 12-week placement. With the right support and training, Childcare Works candidates can make a valuable contribution to a setting and most importantly to our children.”