Katy Pollock, Childminder, Oban

My journey into Early Learning and Childcare

Katy started out as a childminder after she decided she wanted to be at home more for her two eldest children, who were in primary school at the time. Ten years on and Katy has grown her childminding business and in doing so, has inspired her son, Craig, to take on a career in Early Learning and Childcare.

Katy completed her SVQ3 in 2016 through distance learning and also undertakes a range of other training, which allows her to continually learn and develop her skills. There are lots of opportunities for development in a career in Early Learning and Childcare – Katy is currently undertaking an online Autism Awareness course and a basic sign language course.

A job where no two days are the same

Katy has always liked working with young children, so a career in Early Learning and Childcare was ideal for her. On her experience, Katy said:

“I love the amazement children get from the simplest of things, and how much of a difference we as professionals can make to each child’s life.

“I enjoy the variety in my job, the most. No two days are the same. As well as the activities I organise for each day, every child comes with their own ideas of what they want to do and that changes on a daily basis. Being able to think on the spot, follow child-led ideas and help them create whatever it is they want, is key.

“Through Early Learning and Childcare, the kids gain extended families, often with older children they play with and learn from. Children become a part of our family and most keep in touch after they’ve left, which is lovely.

“The most rewarding thing about what I do is that parents trust me with their most prized possession, plus the smiles I get from children when they see me each day.

“As for my son, Craig, he’s very good with the young children I look after and always enjoys engaging with them. So, when an apprenticeship vacancy in a nursery came up as he was finishing school, it seemed like a good opportunity for him, especially as he’s interested in developing outdoor activities with children.

“To anyone thinking about childcare I’d say it can be extremely hard work, but there is nothing more rewarding than a hug from a child, a gift of a picture they’ve drawn, or a flower they’ve picked for you.”