What you’ll need to work in a nursery
Nurseries have to know the people looking after children are safe and qualified. Here’s what we’ll ask for — and don’t worry if you haven’t got it all yet.
An enhanced DBS check
Everyone working with children needs an enhanced DBS certificate that includes a check of the children’s barred list.
If you’re subscribed to the DBS Update Service, let us know. With your permission we can check your certificate online, which saves time.
Two references
We’ll ask for two references, one of them from your most recent employer. If you’ve worked with children before, at least one should cover that work.
Just give us their details — we’ll contact them for you.
Your qualification certificates
Bring your original certificates for any early years qualifications you hold.
For Level 3 roles, your qualification needs to be “full and relevant” — that means it appears on the Department for Education’s early years qualifications list. Not sure about yours? Ask us and we’ll check.
Proof of your right to work in the UK
For example, a British or Irish passport, or a share code if you have an eVisa. We’ll tell you exactly what we need for your situation.
Paediatric first aid (if you have it)
It’s not essential to register, but if you hold a paediatric first aid certificate, bring it along — nurseries value it highly.
What we won’t ask for on the website
Our online form only asks for the basics. We never ask for your date of birth, National Insurance number, health details or photo ID online. Anything like that is handled securely later, as part of our checks.
Got a question about any of this? Get in touch — or go ahead andregister now. You can send your documents later.
Ready to get started?
Register now and send your documents when you have them.