02/09/03 - Childcare - A Career of the Future

Cumbria Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership is launching a recruitment campaign over the next few months to encourage more people in the county to consider a career in childcare. Childcare is expanding rapidly as a result of the Government's National Childcare Strategy. It is currently the second fastest growing industry sector in the country. Now more and more childcare workers are needed to work in this challenging and rewarding industry.   

To address the need for more childcare workers in Cumbria, Cumbria's Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership is organising a series of free 'Making Choices' events to give those interested lots of information on all the career options and the training and qualifications on offer. The 'Making Choices' events are to be held in local and convenient venues across Cumbria and the hours fit around the school run! Those attending will also be able to visit local childcare providers to see for themselves what it's like. Crèche facilities will be available for those who need it.   

Joan Stocker, Cabinet Spokesperson for Education says   

"There has never been such a demand for childcare as there is now, however parents and children want to use childcare that is good quality, affordable and meets their needs. The National Childcare Strategy is creating new childcare places for children in nurseries, pre-schools, childminders, and out of school clubs. 

Cumbria Early Years Development & Childcare Partnership is now developing innovative and practical ways of raising local awareness and supporting people through the process of considering working within the childcare sector. This campaign aims to provide opportunities for people of all backgrounds and ages, qualified and unqualified, to consider becoming a paid worker or even a volunteer in any aspect of working with children in childcare settings."   

Angela Murphy, Cumbria Early Years Development & Childcare Partnership Training Officer says,   

"Cumbria Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership can offer advice and support to those considering a career in childcare and good quality training is available locally. We are looking for people who are committed and enthusiastic and care about children and young people and want to give them a good start in life. We will be running a marketing campaign in the local press and radio to show what's on offer in the industry.   

The Making Choices events are a great way to find out more about all the options available for working in childcare and what's more you don't even have to have any experience or qualifications to attend." 

The 'Making Choices' events will be held as follows:   

Morton Community Centre, Wigton Road, Carlisle 10,13,14 and 15 October 2003 9.15am-2.30pm   

The Oval Centre, Workington 16,17, 20 and 21 October 2003 9.15am-2.30pm   

Furness Childcare Centre, High Street, Barrow 6,7,10 and 11 November 2003 9.15am-2.30pm 

To book a place at one of the 'Making Choices' events contact the Cumbria Children's Information Service on 08457 125 737 (local rate).