If you enjoy supporting young people and helping them learn and develop, there are many career options to consider. Here are some of the top avenues to explore for those interested in working with children:
Teaching
One of the most obvious choices is to train as a school teacher. This allows you to work directly with children and young people on a daily basis, nurturing their education and personal development. You’ll need to complete a teaching degree and qualify as a certified teacher through a teacher training programme. There are various specialisms, including primary school, secondary school, special educational needs, early years, and more. The role involves planning lessons, delivering curriculum content, assessing student progress, and supporting extracurricular activities.
Social Work
Social workers support vulnerable children and families. They work with local authorities, charities, community groups and other organisations. Duties involve assessing children’s welfare, advocating for them, implementing care plans, and coordinating services they may need. You’ll usually need a bachelor’s degree approved by the Health and Care Professions Council to qualify. Social workers play a vital role in safeguarding children’s wellbeing.
Child Psychologist
Child psychologists assess psychological, emotional, cognitive and social development in children and adolescents. They may work with children individually, run group therapy sessions, or advise families on child development. Extensive training is required, including an undergraduate degree in psychology, a doctorate in educational, child or adolescent psychology, and supervised practice. Child psychologists help identify and treat issues like learning disabilities, mental health problems, or behavioural disorders.
Foster Carer
Foster carers provide temporary care for children who are unable to live with their biological families. You’ll work closely with an agency like Fostering People to welcome foster children into a stable and nurturing home environment. Foster carers receive training and assessment before they can be approved. It’s a way to make a real difference in disadvantaged children’s lives. You’ll act as the primary caregiver, advocate and role model while children are in your home.
Youth Worker
Youth workers help young people learn new skills, empower them to make positive life choices, and support their personal development. They run programmes and activities tailored to interests like sports, arts, counselling or outdoor adventure. You can work for local council youth services, community projects, charities and youth clubs. Relevant vocational qualifications like a Diploma in Youth Work or childhood studies degree are preferred.
Paediatric Nurse
Paediatric nurses provide medical care and support for babies, children and young people. They work in hospitals, clinics and community settings. The role involves administering treatment, monitoring development, providing emotional support to children and families, and educating about health and wellbeing. You’ll need a nursing degree specialising in children’s nursing and registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Paediatric nurses play a key role in caring for sick, injured and disabled children.
The options above demonstrate the range of impactful careers working with children. Whether you want to teach, counsel, advocate, care for or inspire young people, there are many paths to choose from. All play an important role in supporting children’s growth, education and wellbeing. If you have a passion for making a difference in children’s lives, any of these careers could be very fulfilling.