Gaining qualifications to work in Nursery setting, which qualifications!?

[FloralFlowers]

Hi all,
My dd2 goes off to school next Sept, and I would like to work in a nursery when she does.
I was just wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction for the qualification I will need to do this?
Can I volunteer in a nursery before hand and study at the same time, or would I have to study first then gain experience?
Also, what is the actual qualification needed??
I am 26, and finished up to my AS levels!!
Any help, much appreciated!!

Thanks

NNEB or CACHE I think. level 2/3 minimum probably

your local college would run suitable courses probably

With AS levels you would be looking to study at level 3

BTEC I think

NVQ's are being restructured New courses available from January

You can volunteer first, but you will usually need practical experience during your course - I have a BTEC youngster atm 2 days a week for 3 half-terms

You could also look at a foundation degree as a mature student

That's great news, I really hope there will be new courses available in January otherwise it will be a looooong wait for me!!
Is the GNVQ level 2 a year long course??

try here

It used to be the Learning & Skills council but it might help?

I think there are adult apprenticeships too now

You need a level 3 really. Call your local families information service- they will advise and let you know of any funding they may have ( much reduced from previous years but may be some)

There is no longer an NNEB. A level 2 NVQ or CACHE certificate is possible to do as you work. You can then do an NVQ3 or CACHE Diploma.