I'm bored at work, need more of a challenge but unsure about training, what jobs/areas etc.

[SammyK]

I am currently a nursery nurse, (two weeks into job!) previously was a childminder for four years. I have a level 3 qual in children'ss care, learning and development. I love working with children - but it doesn't challenge me.

Fancy social work, nursing or teaching all with children but have no idea how I would go about changing career or figuring out which area I would go into.

How can I find out more about routes into these jobs?

Does anyone do any work with children that they find challenging and enjoyable?

If I did retrain how would I juggle it? I currently work as pay household bills equally with DP.

Any advice or opinions welcomed.

How about trying to get into the more challenging side of dealing with under 5's. My mum was a social worker and was seconded into being the deputy manager of a childrens centre. Think nursery but all children with behavioural or home problems. It was very challenging and she loved it. Also DBIL's step daughter works as a child carer in one of the womens aid places. She gets a lot out of that.

Find ot what colleges, universities do Social Work diplomas/degrees and go talk to them.

I also don't think main stream nursery is unchallenging incase I offend anyone in that occupation.

Thanks gscrym those both sound like interesting jobs, don't get me wrong nursery nursing can be challenging but I don't find it challenges me intellectually, which is an area in which I enjoy to feel challenged.

Will look into courses, and see what is on offer.

Hi Sammy,
Wanted to bump this as I was drawn to your post cos I too am considering retraining as a social worker but I would like to work with people with mental health issues. ATM i am a debt advisor, i'm on mat leave and go back in september, I have a fixed term contract till 2011 and am going to stay until then as I have some debts to pay off, then am hoping to get aplace at uni but haven't really thought any further than this. I also go 50/50 on the bills with DH.

SammyK how about policing - either as sworn officer or PCSO? Lots of social work type contact as PCSO (esp if covering large residential areas) and long term (after you've served probation on response) opportunties to specialise if you're a sworn officer.

Life experience more relevant than qualifications in both those fields.

Policing? Hmm interesting! Though hours are tricky aren't they, DP works shifts so don't think I would want us both doing them from a family logistical point of view.

I had been applying tobecome a foster carer at the beginning of the year, and put that on hold as I wanted to be sure. I am now going to continue with that if I still can.

Will have the challenge I crave, I have workd with children with behavioural issues before and really got a lot from it. Plus will be at hand for DS too.