Qualifications that would help with applying to be a foster carer

[Emily95]

For years I have wanted to be a foster carer. I'm still young, in my early twenties, but while I'm still working in retail I'd like to be able to start doing some online courses that will help me in the future. Has anyone got any ideas?
Thanks.

Have you any experience with children as qualifications are
Good but hand on experience would be better ? Could you offer to baby sit any children, volunteer to help put at a school?

Yes, of course you're right! At the moment my plan is to do a diploma of some sorts in children and young people, and work with children who have disabilities. I used to volunteer at a specialist school which I loved.
Thank you :)

How about volunteering for Guiding or Scouting? Or getting some other experience of working/volunteering with children.

A first aid course would be useful, as woukd a safeguarding course.

I'd wait to do the diploma - they're pricey for you to fund yourself and some local authorities will pay for you to do them once you're approved.

Hands on experience is much more desirable than any qualification but if you're absolutely desperate to get into a classroom then anything surrounding children's mental health would be ideal. Most LAs are still sadly lacking in training in this area yet it's probably one of the largest issues our children face.

As already suggested, guiding is an excellent way to gain hands on experience, and I really enjoyed the years I spent helping out too!