Can you describe your journey into working in Early Years (how did you qualify, what have been the key steps along the way)?
When I became a parent at 20 I would come to self weigh at the BECC were I got to know the staff there. Through-out my sons first year's I attended multiple universal sessions & family support courses - when my life situation got complicated having staff to talk things over helped a lot. I got help when it was time to apply for 2 year funding. Once applied I got asked whether I would want to volunteer to help myself get in a better position to apply for jobs. I started working with paper work, then slowly worked my way up to using Indigo. When a data admin job opened within the company I applied - I didn't get the job first time but another team member was needed and I got the job. Already having knowledge of the software used and the company I think boosted my chance at getting the job.
What are the key things that you love about your job?
* Team members
* Challenges
* Freedom to come up with new ideas/ways to improve work e.g pivot tables/spreadsheets
* Flexibility - knowing if anything was to happen I can WFH/take time off & make it up later.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to work in Early Years?
Go for it. Even the smallest of tasks helping as a volunteer gives a boost in self esteem, socializing and is helpful to put onto a CV when needed.