Becoming a Nursery Practitioner can be achieved in many ways, including gaining qualifications through colleges, courses, or even apprenticeships - sometimes even just having some experience can get you in the door!​ It is still possible to work in childcare without a qualification as an Unqualified Nursery Nurse Assistant, with the right experience and passion for the career, and under the right circumstances.

Nursery staff need to be trusted, knowledgeable, and interactive - but this is all learned with practice, patience, and time as a career progresses. The best way to become a practitioner is to demonstrate passion for working within the early years sector, and to expand professional development practices through gained experience, education, and enthusiasm to reach your goals.

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Recognised ways to becoming a qualified Nursery Practitioner can include;

• Volunteering.

• Work Experience.

• Gaining a Level 2 qualification in Childcare, for entry-level roles such as a Nursery Assistant, Preschool Assistant, or Childminder Assistant.

• Gaining a Level 3 in The Early Years Work Force or a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification. 

• Gaining a NVQ Level 3 qualification in Children's Care, Learning and Development.

• Gaining a BTEC National Diploma in Children's Care, Learning and Development.​​

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These courses can be taken at local colleges, and through apprenticeships in early years settings - the type of qualification taken depends on the person's preferences, and experiences.