23/11/2004 - Childminding could be the career for you

Jason the Juggler will be entertaining children at a fun day at the Tithe Barn, West Walls, Carlisle, on Thursday 25 November between 10am and 2pm while their parents find out more about careers in childcare. 

The fun day, organised by Cumbria Sure Start and Jobcentre Plus aims to raise awareness about the wide range of jobs now available in childcare. It will also highlight the support and training on offer in Cumbria for anyone interested in finding out more about childcare careers. 

Local employers and childcare providers will be attending including some who already have job vacancies.

Advice from careers experts Connexions and New Frontiers will be available on jobs that fit with family commitments; training opportunities; self-employment and much more. 

Development workers from Cumbria Sure Start will also be on hand to give information about their making choices courses. These courses are free and give a basic introduction into what childcare training and employment is available in North Cumbria. Jobcentre Plus staff will be able to do tax credit calculations and offer advice on finding suitable employment, the new deal for lone parents scheme and other programmes. 

Also, for those looking for information about the range of early years education and childcare provision available, Cumbria County Council’s Children’s Information Service will be on hand to help.

The children will also enjoy themselves. There will be face-painting and other exciting entertainment from Jason the Juggler to keep them amused throughout the day. 

County councillor, Joan Stocker, cabinet member for education said:

"The aim of this fun day is to raise people’s awareness of the fact that there is a shortage of childcare professionals and to put the idea into their heads that maybe they could do it. It’s not just young women who can look after children. Men and older people can also make a valuable contribution. Early years education provides quality childcare to enable families to balance home and work responsibilities while bringing up their children. Childcare is a growing area and it can make an excellent career. The county council is looking to the future needs and encouraging people to look at a career in childcare so that we can deal with the growing demand from parents. The support and training is there, and we need people to come forward and take an interest in this valuable and rewarding area of work."

Gillian Wadeson of Cumbria Sure Start explains why this event has been organised. She said:

"The aim of the event is to promote careers, training and employment opportunities in childcare. We hope to raise awareness of the options available, as childcare is currently the second fastest growing employment sector in the UK."

Peter Hindle, the Childcare Partnership Manager for Jobcentre Plus is pleased to be involved in this event. He said:

"We are pleased to work with Cumbria Sure Start on this project. The event will bring together employers and professionals with people wanting to work or train within the childcare sector. It will also provide details on the availability of childcare provision in North Cumbria for those ready to go into work. 

For further information on the fun day contact Peter Hindle or Sue Richardson at Jobcentre Plus on 01539 795012 or 795065.